Plans to build a multimillion-euro Europe-China trading hub in Ireland have been given the green light in what could become the largest Chinese investment in the country.
The project, nicknamed “Shanghai-on-Shannon” because of its location on the banks of the river Shannon near Athlone town, would provide exhibition space to showcase Chinese products to European and US buyers.
The master plan for the project – which has yet to secure investment – envisages a 320-acre development, incorporating 400,000 square metres of exhibition halls, 3,000 demonstration units, a convention centre in the style of a Chinese palace, a golf course and two five-star hotels.