Work to start on baths next year

THE long-awaited redevelopment of the Dún Laoghaire Baths site is finally set to go ahead after a unanimous decision by local councillors to support an ambitious new plan.

The proposed re-development will see the refurbishment of the central block at the Dún Laoghaire bath sites, with the creation of a café, terrace, gallery and studio workshops for emerging artists.

The surrounding area of the site will be upgraded, with the renovation of the bandstand, the installation of new grass banks, and the creation of a new walkway along the cliff path to link the baths site with the East Pier and improve access to the sea.

The redevelopment will also see footpaths in the surrounding area being repaired, and the installation of new street lighting.

Cllr Carrie Smyth (Lab) welcomed the proposed redevelopment of the Dún Laoghaire Baths site at a special council meeting on November 2.

“The redevelopment of the Dún Laoghaire Baths will bring a fantastic new amenity to the people of Dún Laoghaire and its surrounding areas,” Cllr Smyth said.

“I remember using the baths as a child and during my teenage years making many visits to Rainbow Rapids. It is a place that is much-loved by the people of the area.

“The site has been unused since 1997, meaning this re-development is long overdue.

“I would like to commend the work of the Dún Laoghaire ward councillors from 2004-2009, who comprised the Dún Laoghaire Baths Sub-Committee, and particularly the work of my Labour Party colleague, former councillor Jane Dillon Byrne, who chaired the committee and spearheaded the campaign for redevelopment.

“Works are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2016. I look forward to the day when this exciting new facility will be open to the public. It will be a fantastic addition to the town.”