€15m transformation of Balbriggan Harbour moves to final stage of tender

Plans for the multi-million euro refurbishment of Balbriggan’s Quay Street and Harbour have taken a major step forward.

The development, which will turn the area into a premier visitor destination, is another massive advance in the €50million Our Balbriggan rejuvenation programme.

Proposed works at Quay Street and the Harbour have progressed to final tender stage, through Fingal County Council.

Plans are now well developed for the €15million redevelopment works at Quay Street and the Harbour, on both sides of its famous viaduct, which will redefine Balbriggan’s beach and coastline, creating an outstanding visitor attraction.

The change of use of the former RNLI Boathouse and the development of new harbour buildings are designed to generate increased social and commercial activity at the Harbour and throughout the town.

New public amenities will include toilets and changing places.

The project will also include enhancement work to the River Bracken, new surfacing and increased seating, green and play spaces as well as the redesign of parking and traffic flows.

Works are now anticipated to commence in March 2024 with the project expected to be complete in December 2025.

Motorists affected by the closure of the Quay Street car park to facilitate the works are urged to walk, cycle or use public transport, but those who cannot can use free car parks provided by Fingal County Council at Bath Road and Bremore Castle.

The project went to tender on October 9, when shortlisted companies were invited to submit their tender for the works.

Under the Our Balbriggan rejuvenation programme, Fingal County Council has made a number of strategic property acquisitions throughout the town.

Quay Street and Harbour works going to the final tender stage follows the granting by the Council of planning permission for a €3.3m creative hub at 2-4 Dublin Street, whilst demolition work has commenced at the rear of the DeBruns building on Bridge Street.

According to the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Adrian Henchy, the redevelopment of Quay Street and the Harbour will remodel Balbriggan.

“This is a stunning and complex project. I am very much looking forward to watching it progress to completion,” he said.

The Our Balbriggan leadership group, formed at the outset of the regeneration programme, and chaired by Professor Brian MacCraith, plays a key role in helping guide the town’s rejuvenation programme.

“It is wonderful see the €15million redevelopment works at Quay Street and the Harbour going to the final tender stage,” said Professor MacCraith.

“These works will form part of the transformation of the town through the Balbriggan rejuvenation programme.”

Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly, said the move to the final tender stage was another critical development in the delivery of the Our Balbriggan rejuvenation programme.

“Fingal County Council is strongly committed to delivering the Our Balbriggan rejuvenation programme, with the aim of ensuring a great place to live, work and do business,” she said.