Mayo County Council is set to seek councillor approval to extend the lease of Keel Caravan Park on Achill Island by a further eight years, with the proposal scheduled to come before the council’s monthly meeting on Monday. The decision, if approved, would see the existing lease arrangement continue from January 2026 under revised terms aimed at supporting the long-term operation of the facility.
The caravan park, located at the Keel Sandybanks on Achill Island, is currently operated by Suaimhneas Leisure Ltd, an Athenry-based company.
The park is run on a day-to-day basis by Michael and Lisa Fitzsimons, who assumed responsibility for operations in recent years. Suaimhneas Leisure Ltd has formally requested the lease extension from Mayo County Council, which owns the site.
According to information provided to the council, the primary reason for seeking the extended lease term is to support eligibility for external funding opportunities.
The company has indicated that many grant schemes applicable to tourism and outdoor accommodation developments require operators to demonstrate security of tenure through longer lease agreements. An eight-year lease would therefore provide a clearer framework for investment planning and potential upgrades to the park.
Under the proposed agreement, the lease would commence in January 2026 for a period of eight years, with an option to extend further, subject to review. The annual lease cost would be set at €20,000.
As part of the conditions, the caravan park would be required to operate for a minimum of six months each year, reflecting its role as a seasonal tourism asset on Achill Island.
In a report prepared for councillors ahead of the meeting, Michael McDermot, Head of Tourism, Recreation and Amenity, stated the property is not required by the council and recommended that the lease agreement be approved.
According to MayoLive, the report outlines the rationale for continuing the current operational arrangement, noting the park’s contribution to local tourism infrastructure.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality, caravan, and RV sectors, the proposal highlights the importance of lease security when operating on publicly owned land. Longer-term leases can be a critical factor in accessing public and private funding, justifying capital expenditure, and planning phased improvements.
The case of Keel Caravan Park may also be relevant for operators engaging with local authorities, illustrating how operational performance, seasonal commitments, and clear investment intentions can support negotiations around tenure. The council’s decision on Monday will determine whether the proposed lease extension proceeds as planned.