Dún Laoghaire has its own unique history and heritage. Public investment has transformed the seafront over the past decade, and it will be wonderful to see the regeneration of the old baths site completed later this summer.
Investment in the Town, such regenerating laneways and improving the public realm have made the area welcoming and pleasant for shoppers, workers and residents. But challenges remain. Retail in the Town has struggled for many years and further investment is required to reenergise the busy vibrant atmosphere that I remember many years ago.
It is important that the recent town and harbour studies are acted on to deliver a straightforward Local Area Plan with deliverable targets for the Town’s future development. A significant part of that process is consultation with the residents and traders.
Last year’s Summer Streets initiative demonstrates a willingness by the Council to work towards achieving a more vibrant Dún Laoghaire. While many aspects of the pedestrianisation worked well, there were difficulties for some people.
My own thoughts are that a hybrid model using retractable bollards (similar to those on Haigh Terrace) could be facilitated allowing pedestrianisation of Lower George’s Street at certain times to be agreed in consultation with the residents, traders, St. Michaels Hospital, Dublin Bus, the NTA and other interested parties such as the Gardaí.
Traffic issues on Corrig Road and Tivoli Road continue to cause problems, this needs attention. The footpaths are narrow and the road is subject to congestion. The permeability route from Cualanor to the Town, at the junction of St. Joseph’s School and Tivoli Road, needs particular attention to improve pedestrian safety. It is important that any proposed measures are discussed and agreed by the residents’ associations of Dún Laoghaire as solving an issue here may simply move it elsewhere.
There are two projects to be delivered in the short-term that I support and believe will bring positive benefits to the town. One is the long-awaited Innovation Hub to be located in the former ferry terminal building. This is due to commence this summer and will bring vibrancy, employment opportunities and increased footfall to the Town. The other is a skatepark to be located within the environs of the harbour. It is important that we provide decent recreational facilities for all age groups to use in Dún Laoghaire, the skatepark which is a result of committed hard work at a local level will do that. I am delighted that funding for the project was secured at a recent Council meeting. t.
Dún Laoghaire has a bright future. The preparation of a Local Area Plan for Dún Laoghaire will ensure that we can develop a shared vision for the Town and take the concrete steps needed to achieve it. The recent town and harbour reports provide some key recommendations that may inform the Local Area Plan. This along with the above-mentioned initiatives and strong consultation are important to secure Dún Laoghaire’s best future.
Cllr. Justin Moylan.
D.L.C.R.A. 