DLR reveals ambitious Harbour Masterplan

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has announced the launch of the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan, a transformative vision for one of Ireland’s most iconic coastal destinations.

Commissioned by the Council, supported by Fáilte Ireland and delivered by a large multidisciplinary team led by ARROW Architects from Copenhagen, the Masterplan has been shaped through a collaborative co-design process.

A CGI of what Pavilion Garden will look like

The Masterplan sets out guiding principles to reimagine Dún Laoghaire Harbour as a dynamic, multifunctional space that honours its maritime heritage while embracing contemporary needs and opportunities.

Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said:

“This Masterplan is a milestone for Dún Laoghaire. It honours our maritime heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability.

“Our goal is to create a Harbour that is not only a gateway to the sea but a living, breathing part of the town – a place for people to gather, explore, and enjoy every day.”

Frank Curran, Chief Executive, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, added:

“The Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan represents a bold and forward-thinking vision for one of Ireland’s most iconic coastal destinations.

“It is the result of extensive collaboration and consultation, ensuring that the voices of our community are at the heart of this transformation.”

Caroline Bocquel, CEO of Fáilte Ireland highlighted:

“Fáilte Ireland welcomes the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan which sets out a coordinated and integrated plan for the redevelopment of Dun Laoghaire Harbour as a thriving coastal destination that will appeal to both domestic and international visitors.  

“Fáilte Ireland looks forward to working collaboratively with Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council on the delivery of the tourism actions in the plan”.

A Harbour Reconnected

The Masterplan seeks to reconnect the Harbour with the town, transforming what was once a functional and fragmented space into a vibrant, accessible and inclusive destination.

It outlines a framework for renewal that weaves together cultural identity, sustainability and placemaking, ensuring that change happens across multiple timeframes—from immediate, visible interventions to long-term restructuring of movement, use and governance.

A key feature of the strategy is the creation of a unified sequence of spaces linking the Harbour’s distinct areas—Carlisle Pier, the Old Harbour, St. Michael’s Pier, the Gut and more—into a cohesive experience.

Each location will retain its unique character while contributing to an overall sense of flow, inviting people to explore, dwell and return.

What’s in the Masterplan?

The plan includes 30+ projects grouped into six key quarters:

• Urban Quarter
• East Pier Quarter
• Active Quarter
• Marina Quarter
• National Water Sports Campus Quarter
• West Pier and Gut

Projects are prioritised as short, medium and long-term, with some early activation initiatives already underway.

Current Projects

• The Metals Green: A new 0.30 ha green space along Harbour Road featuring accessible paths, coastal planting, and a central gathering area for activities like yoga and pop-up kiosks. Public consultation is open until 6 February.
• National Watersports Campus: A flagship project to establish Dún Laoghaire as Ireland’s National Watersports Campus, offering structured education in sailing, water safety, and a variety of watersports. Co-design is underway, with public consultation later this year.

Governance & Funding

Delivery will be guided by a Masterplan Steering Group, ensuring alignment across design, planning, engagement, and funding.

The plan will draw on diverse funding streams, including the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), Shared Island Fund, Climate Action Fund, Fáilte Ireland, Sport Ireland, the Department of Agriculture – Foreshore and Marine Infrastructure Funds, among others.

This Masterplan marks the beginning of a new chapter for Dún Laoghaire Harbour—a Harbour for everyone, every day.

The full plan and list of projects can be found on dlrcoco.ie