Fingal County Council has today launched a public consultation on plans to transform the centre of Balbriggan as part of a €10 million redevelopment which will deliver a unique sustainable public open space in the heart of Ireland’s youngest town.

Subject to planning permission, the redevelopment of the 19,300 square metres site is expected to commence in late 2023, with works being completed in five phases between early 2024 and Q1 2025.

The multi-purpose plaza area and linear park is designed to host markets, events and festivals and to provide a centre point to an enhanced leisure and tourist offering in the town. The proposed new space is the largest signature project to be brought forward under the Our Balbriggan 2019-2025 Rejuvenation Plan.

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The public realm redevelopment will see areas of Quay Street, Mill Street, Harbour Road and Balbriggan Harbour become an integrated space which seamlessly links the town centre and River Bracken with the harbour.

Some 75% of the funding for the project will come from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, with the remainder financed from Fingal’s capital spending programme.

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Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Howard Mahony highlighted the new development’s importance for the local tourist economy, saying: “This green urban area will be the key link between Bremore Regional Park and historic Ardgillan Castle. Alongside this, it will serve as a scenic starting point for the Fingal Coastal Way and be at the heart of Balbriggan’s offering for local people and visitors alike.”

Professor Brian MacCraith, chair of the Our Balbriggan Leadership Group said that this is the

most ambitious step yet in the town’s rejuvenation plan.

“Our research, conducted with the people of Balbriggan, clearly demonstrated support for reimagining the harbour area. We have before us proposals that will do just that, creating an exciting, lively pier and waterfront that will help link leisure and tourism opportunities in the town and significantly boost Balbriggan’s offering,” said Professor MacCraith.

AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council believes that the new public realm proposals will provide an ideal central meeting place on the Fingal coast.

“This is one of the most significant milestones in our ambition to redevelop Balbriggan and represents a major investment in the town. This reimagined space is a symbol of the progress being made in the Our Balbriggan plan – one that was informed and shaped by the community and which will provide a well-designed public place for people to not only enjoy but feel proud of.”

Scheduled open days, advertised in advance, will take place in July and August at the Our Balbriggan Hub in George’s Square where people can discuss the plans with relevant Council officials for more information.

Submissions about the redevelopment plans will be accepted until 5pm on August 19.

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