A fantastic plan for a multi-million pound futuristic tourism and gambling development could be about to transofrm the fortunes of Dundalk.

A planning appication for the €430m 'Altitude' will be lodged with Louth local authorities within the next month with the project earmarked for a site just off the M1.

The plans are scheduled to roll out over the next seven years, include proposals to build everything from an all weather skit slope, huge indoor concert arena and cinema, to ten-pin bowling alley, swimming and sports centres, shops and resturants.

Representatives in the town are excited by the news of the development which they believe they could transform the local economy.  Dundalk town councillor Jim Ryan said he would welcome the ambitious project, "It would be very exciting for the town, absolutely.  It could help transform Dundalk and would help us give something - especially in this current economic climate".

The initial phases of 'Altitude' will cost €100m to deliver with the overall investment rising to €430m through to 2016.

It is forecast to generate economic activity worth €60m a year initially and over €330m annually when the entire project is finished.

As well as Mr. Curran, who was involved in the Dundalk Icedome project in 2006, the plan is backed by planning and business consultant Pearse O'Hanrahan, a Bord Gais director and former chairan of Dundalk Town council who chairs Dundalk Port. They believe the completed development could create 1,198 full time and 388 part time jobs, as well as 400 construction jobs during the building.