Work on a major revamp of Malahide’s New Street is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with construction set to take approximately 16 months.
The project will bring new paving, lighting, seating and outdoor dining areas to the pedestrianised street, along with 37 new trees and upgrades to water and drainage infrastructure.
Fingal County Council says pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the works, with homes and businesses remaining accessible and construction breaks planned during the busy summer and Christmas periods.
The council has appointed Maylim Limited to carry out the scheme, which will reshape one of the village centre’s main public spaces.
For businesses along New Street, the construction programme will mean a prolonged period of works on their doorstep.
The council says the project will be carefully phased to minimise disruption, with a dedicated business liaison officer working directly with affected traders and property owners.
Located at The Diamond, New Street has operated as a pedestrianised space since 2020.
The new scheme will build on that change and complement improvements already made to the nearby Village Green.
Accessible pedestrian surfaces, cycle parking, loading bays and an accessible parking space are included in the plans.
The landscaping will incorporate sustainable urban drainage features alongside the new trees, while upgraded public lighting and seating will form part of the street’s new layout.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy, joined Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien last Monday (5th) to mark the project milestone ahead of construction.
“The commencement of works on New Street marks an exciting moment for Malahide,” Cllr Murphy said.
“This project will transform the heart of the village into an even more welcoming and attractive destination, creating a vibrant civic space where residents and visitors can meet, relax and enjoy everything Malahide has to offer.”
The scheme is also intended to support walking and cycling around the village, which sits at the centre of Fingal’s proposed greenway network.
Malahide is set to be connected to the Broadmeadow Way and the Sutton to Malahide Greenway, with the council saying the New Street improvements will complement those routes.
David Storey, the council’s director of services for Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel and Sport, said the project would support sustainable travel as well as improvements to the public space.
“The enhanced public realm will make it easier and more enjoyable for people to move around without relying on a car, supporting everyday activity and helping to create a more sustainable village centre,” he said.
Mr O’Brien said the investment would improve the everyday experience of the village centre.
“The New Street Public Realm Enhancement Project will help create a safer, more accessible and attractive environment in the centre of Malahide, supporting active travel, local businesses and community wellbeing while enhancing the character of the area for future generations,” he said.