The Roscommon County Council has accepted the proposals for a National Space Exploration Centre (NSEC) near Monksland, Athlone, subject to eight requirements.

In an existing warehouse that was previously utilised for recreational purposes, the applicant, Metaversal Ltd., is seeking to build an educational and recreational facility with a space theme.

The applicant describes the NSEC's immersive and interactive space museum, virtual reality (VR) space mission, and event space with a café adjacent in the planning statement.

Up to 45 installations illustrating the significance of the planet and the effects—both good and bad—that human activity has on it would be included in the planned museum.

For developers looking to apply for money under the EU Just Transition Grant Aid Scheme, this is the first stage in the process.