The Madden family’s eminent association with the hotel industry in Clare comes to an end with the sale of the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis.
The landmark, 70-bedroom hotel, bar and restaurant will continue to operate through a seamless transition retaining staff and services at the popular, town centre, 4-star facility.
People and service underpin the culture of warm hospitality and attention to detail, created by legendary founder John Madden. This ethos is assiduously cultivated by his son Paul, who has overseen the hotel operations for more than twenty years.
‘It’s a success story of which we are incredibly proud,’ said a confident Paul Madden. ‘My father John lived and breathed the hospitality industry in every moment of every day of his working life. However, now is the time that feels right for us to sell our business and I personally look forward to the new and exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Our hope is that under new ownership, the Temple Gate Hotel will begin a bright new chapter in its continuing story,‘ he said.
‘The loyal, friendly and committed staff of the Temple Gate is central to the hotel’s unique identity. Their professionalism and kindness continue to draw favourable comment from guests, tour operators, food & beverage customers, community and sports groups. We will always be grateful to them and I am confident that our new owners feel the same,’ he added.
John Madden developed his managerial experience in the Lynch-owned, West County Hotel before realising a dream to start his own, family-run hotel business in 1996 at the site of the Old Convent of Mercy in Ennis. John and his wife Vera navigated a complex design and interior fit-out with developer Egan O’Connor, mindful of retaining the gothic theme of the original building.
“The decision to open our own hotel in the centre of Ennis was a mighty leap of faith for the Madden family,’ said John. ‘Over almost 30 years, the Temple Gate became very successful in spite of the Celtic Tiger crash, economic uncertainties and more recently Covid. These hammer blows could have ended the story, but we survived and thrived in no small part due to the dedication and hard work of our team, our loyal customer base and Paul’s leadership qualities,’ he concluded.
The Temple Gate Hotel has been acquired by Kelvin Hotels Ltd, a company which comprises two well-known hoteliers in the Mid-West. They are Dermot Kelly and John Gavin, who are owner/directors of Shannon Springs Hotel in Ballycasey.
‘We are hands-on, experienced hoteliers. We recognise and value the culture and ethos of the Temple Gate Hotel, which has been nurtured so carefully by the Madden family over the years. The Temple Gate Hotel has deep roots in the Clare community, which we intend to serve to the best of our ability in the years ahead,’ said the new owners.