Plans are progressing for a major expansion of the Saratoga Bar in Woodstown, with its owners outlining their vision for the beachfront venue over the coming years.
Planning permission has been secured for amendments to a previously approved development at the premises, while work on the next stage is expected to get underway in the coming weeks.
Speaking to Mary O’Neill on WLR’s Hot Desk, Clifden Foyle said the plans include the creation of a new beachfront restaurant and event space overlooking the estuary and Woodstown Beach.
The development is also intended to build on the Saratoga’s wedding offering, taking advantage of its secluded coastal location.
Clifden said the aim is to complement the traditional character of the existing pub with a more contemporary space, with inspiration taken from venues the team visited in Portugal and how they incorporated their beachfront settings.
Work Expected to Begin Within Weeks
The latest planning application relates to amendments to an earlier permission granted for the Saratoga.
Among the changes are alterations to the roof and internal layout, additional timber decking to the rear, new window and door openings, changes to the rear courtyard and revised accessibility arrangements.
Clifden told WLR that construction is expected to begin within the next two to four weeks.
The team is aiming to have the new space ready by Easter 2027, with weddings already booked at the venue for June.
Longer-Term Vision for the Saratoga
The work is part of what Clifden described as a five-year project for the Woodstown venue.
Beyond the new event space, further development is envisaged, including additional accommodation. The Saratoga currently has six rooms, some of which overlook the bay.
Once the wider plans are realised, Clifden believes the expanded business could support approximately 25 to 30 full-time jobs.
He said the team sees significant potential in developing the Saratoga further as a coastal wedding and hospitality destination while retaining the character of the existing premises.
