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Do we really need a second cinema?

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News that Killarney is to get a second cinema has caused quite a stir over the past couple of days with strong opinions on both sides of the divide. While some have welcomed the move, others have questioned the need of another cinema in a town of Killarney’s size.

The new five-screen cinema will be located on the site of the old Torc Great Southern Hotel on the Park Road, opposite Arshanavooley housing estate. The two-storey building will consist of 2,500 square metres, a restaurant spanning both floors and 200 parking spaces. It will be operated by Omniplex, the company behind the cinema in Tralee.

The largest screen will be a premium large format (PLF) screen with 301 seats. The second largest will have 115 seats and the remaining four will provide 95 seats each.

Kerry County Council initially refused planning for the new facility on the grounds that it would affect the tourism product and the night-time economy of the town. They also claimed it would lead to unsustainable single-car trips. An Bórd Pleanála subsequently overturned that decision, however, and it now appears as though the new development will be going ahead.

Announcing details of the development, the planning officer claimed the new cinema “would not seriously injure the amenities of the area”.

Generally speaking, the move has not been greeted positively by the people of Killarney. In a poll carried out on the Killarney Advertiser Facebook page, 64% of respondents said the new cinema was not a good idea (at time of going to print).

It certainly seems like a strange decision. We already have a good cinema in Killarney. Do we really need another? It’s great that a site which has been vacant for a long time is finally being put to use, but surely they could have thought of something a bit more original.

If nothing else, the new development lacks entrepreneurial spirit. Our readers have already suggested a number of more innovative amenities, such as a bowling alley, laser tag or indoor karting. What do you think? Let us know via our Facebook page or by emailing newsdesk@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Facebook Poll 

A second five-screen cinema has been confirmed for Killarney, on the site of the old Torc Great Southern Hotel on Park Road. We want to hear your opinion... Is this a good idea?

Yes: 36%

No: 64%

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Aghadoe Heights introduces Engagement Concierge service

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Aghadoe Heights introduces Engagement Concierge service


Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa has launched a full-service Engagement Concierge, providing a bespoke proposal planning service.


Part of the TMR Hotel Collection, the five-star property aims to handle every detail of popping the question, offering discreet support from initial planning to execution.
The process begins with a private consultation to tailor the occasion to the couple. Services on offer include secure ring safekeeping, hidden photography or videography, custom floral arrangements, manicures at the hotel spa, and candlelit balcony or penthouse setups.
Post-proposal options include private dinners, couples’ spa treatments, framed photos delivered at evening turndown, custom embroidered robes, and helicopter flights.
Speaking on the launch, Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa General Manager Brian Bowler highlighted the focus on reducing stress for guests.
“Proposals are among the most meaningful moments in a person’s life, yet they often come with significant pressure,” Bowler said. “Our Engagement Concierge allows guests to focus entirely on the moment itself. We discreetly manage every detail behind the scenes.”
The hotel is also offering follow-up planning for engagement parties and weddings, ranging from intimate penthouse gatherings for up to 18 guests to full exclusive venue takeovers.
Consultations are designed around individual preferences and budgets. Further information is available at aghadoeheights.com/engagement-concierge or through the hotel’s wedding team.

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Paralympic legend to headline Chamber winter schedule

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Paralympic legend to headline Chamber winter schedule


Six-time Paralympic gold medallist Jason Smyth will head to Killarney next month as part of an ambitious winter events schedule announced by the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.


The legendary sprinter will take centre stage for ‘An Evening with Paralympian Jason Smyth’ on Wednesday, October 7 at The Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa. The complimentary discussion event, sponsored by AIB, promises an inspiring insight into the career of one of Ireland’s greatest-ever sporting figures.
The high-profile appearance forms part of a busy lineup of upcoming gatherings designed to connect local businesses and residents across the town.
The schedule kicks off on Wednesday, September 30 with a Chamber Luncheon at the Killarney Heights Hotel, offering members a key networking opportunity ahead of the autumn season.
Chamber leadership highlighted that the autumn and winter series continues the organisation’s core mission of bringing the local community together and showcasing Killarney as an outstanding place to live, work, and belong.

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