Has the scheme giving designated status to seaside resorts had an impact? Clonakilty, one of the most vibrant towns in west Cork, is an example.The investors are not holding back: everywhere there is growth. Two new hotels, one with leisure facilities, are under construction. There are plans to renovate an old brewery in the town and to brew a local product once again; that is, if an appeal against planning permission by a local group opposed to the car-parking arrangements is unsuccessful.If the proposal goes ahead, there will be a craft centre and a restaurant in the building, which began its life in 1807. Tourists will be invited to visit the historic site and sample the brew, probably a stout, which will not be available on the general market.Recently planning permission was granted for 21 new holiday homes. In 1994 Clonakilty Urban District Council dealt with 45 planning applications: last year it received 78.The town is fast becoming a refuge for those seeking to escape the big smoke, the traffic chaos and the general malaise that is afflicting our bigger cities. It has its golf, GAA and rugby clubs and a special community spirit.When the two new hotels are up and running Clonakilty will have six, not bad for a relatively small town.However, the Urban District Council has adopted a policy to ensure that Clonakilty, Cloich na Coillte, will not become a mere dormitory town for summer visitors.West Cork has known its share of this phenomenon, vibrant in summer, deserted in winter. That's why this lover of the area prefers to visit when the throngs have moved on and peace has been restored, and for me that applies particularly to the islands.But as an islander told me once on Cape Clear: "If I was depending on island winter-lovers like you, I wouldn't be too smart." The islander, naturally, was right. That doesn't change my view.