A new high-tech development for Donegal, the Alpha Innovation Centre, has had plans submitted to the Council. The centre will be a catalyst for innovation as a pre-accelerator for early stage entrepreneurs and is to also provide support programmes for start-up businesses. It is expected to boost the region’s growing tech start-up environment, increase innovation and strengthen Donegal’s offering as a superb location to live, work and set-up a business.

Donegal Digital partner Donegal County Council in partnership with the Donegal 2040 Strategic Development Designated Activity Company (DAC) has proposed to carry out the plans for the development on a site between Pearse Road and Ramelton Road in Letterkenny.

The Centre has been co-funded by Enterprise Ireland (also a Donegal Digital partner) under the 'Border Enterprise Development Fund' and in collaboration with other Donegal Digital partners, IDA Ireland, Donegal LEO, Letterkenny Institute of Technology, Donegal ETB and ERNACT.

Through a publication on the Donegal County Council's website, Liam Ward, Director of Service Community and Planning Services at DCC, has explained the nature and extent of the proposed development. The construction of a new 8 storey Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Alpha) building will provide flexible accommodation solutions including Office and Research & Development (R&D) facilities in a floor area of approx. 1,625sq.m (17,500sq.ft).

Furthermore, an associated public realm and controlled access arrangements will also be taken into consideration: a central civic space; pedestrian, cycle, accessibility and mobility infrastructure; landscaping; disabled and age friendly courtesy parking and emergency/service vehicle entry and egress. Liam Ward mentions that all associated ancillary works will include site drainage, connection to public water supply and other services, landscaping, development related signage and public art, connection and discharge to the public sewerage network.

Submissions and observations dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area may be made before 5:00pm on Tuesday 8th February 2022.