Although the Aistear was officially opened to the public in 2000, the architectural plan had not been completed. The shelter and performance areas had not been constructed as the Company did not have sufficient funds to complete the work. 

The Company decided to make another application to Clare County Council Urban and Village Renewal Scheme. Included in the application were the costs involved in the construction of the triple-arch shelter, the creation of the performance area, a lighting system that floodlit the maze and main walk route and other aspects of the artefacts in the seven spaces of the maze that had not been completed.  Also included in the application was the creation of a path that led from the main walk route to the labyrinth. Although the labyrinth was not part of the original plan, it had been constructed as a natural element of the Aistear away from the other recreational facilities.

The Company worked closely with Ger Dollard, Ruth Hurley and Ailish McMahon of the Forward Planning Department in Clare County Council. At all stages they gave their support, encouragement and advice, and eventually the third phase of the project was completed. 

The performance area was paved in Liscannor stone. Electrical outlets were installed on site to facilitate various forms of performance. It became a popular outdoor venue for musical and other events relating to life within the community. The triple-arch shelter was constructed at the harbour entrance to the Aistear. It provides shelter from inclement weather and presents spectacular views of the ruins of Iniscealtra/Holy Island. The view of the island is framed between two mature silver fir trees. 

While the work on the architectural plan was in progress, other projects, such as the children’s play area, the weaving of the willow walls and the planting of flower beds, trees and lawns for the main recreational areas, were also taking place. The rustic play area for the children became a popular venue for birthdays and picnics as well as other family events that were taking place. The miniature toy animals and Viking Long Hall with benches were a source of joy for children and adults alike. The dugout canoe, reminiscent of an ancient period, still continues to fire the imagination even in modern times.

The artefacts and symbols relating to three periods were sculpted in stone and timber by Ruth Eva Morrissey of Portumna, Co. Galway. Well known in her field, her interest and dedication to the themes and concepts of the Aistear ensured her retention as sculptor to the project.  Benedict O’Byrne of the Visual Arts Centre in Dublin was commissioned to sculpt the  High Cross and the slab shrine, which depict the early Christian period. The High Cross is made of granite, while the slab shrine is made of Liscannor stone.

The Emergence of the Aistear Labyrinth