Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council has launched its long-awaited Harbour Masterplan, setting out a transformative vision to reconnect the harbour with the town while honouring its maritime heritage and having the National Watersports Campus at its heart.
At Monday night’s council meeting, members received a detailed presentation from the executive team, supported by Copenhagen-based urban planner Ulrik Jørgensen. The plan was noted, not formally approved, prompting some councillors to raise concerns over democratic oversight.
The Harbour Masterplan, a 300-page document, was commissioned by the council and supported by Fáilte Ireland. It was developed by a multidisciplinary team led by ARROW Architects through a collaborative co-design process.
Described as a flexible framework, the plan identifies over 30 projects grouped into six key zones: the Urban Quarter, East Pier Quarter, Active Quarter, Marina Quarter, National Watersports Campus Quarter, and West Pier and Gut.
Cllr. Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach, said: “This Masterplan is a milestone for Dún Laoghaire. It honours our maritime heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability.”
Frank Curran, Chief Executive, noted: “It is the result of extensive collaboration and consultation, ensuring that the voices of our community are at the heart of this transformation.”
The council’s Harbour Operations Manager Tim Ryan said the plan was designed to evolve over time and that it “enshrines the harbour’s unique maritime identity while supporting modernisation.”
During the meeting, Cllr. Melissa Halpin (PBP) raised concerns that the non-statutory plan was only for noting and not approval by the councillors, with other councillors calling that move a "democratic deficit". Cllr. Mary Fayne (FG) asked for a clearer timeline and alignment with development goals.
Mr Curran said a formal masterplan was necessary to access state funding, such as from the URDF, Shared Island Fund, and Fáilte Ireland.
Early-stage projects include The Metals Green, a proposed new public space along Harbour Road, and the National Watersports Campus, aimed at making Dún Laoghaire Ireland’s central hub for water-based education and recreation.
Public consultation on The Metals Green is open until 6 February, while the watersports campus will undergo further design and engagement later this year.
A Masterplan Steering Group will oversee delivery across planning, funding, and community engagement.
Download a copy of the masterplan here
On Tuesday (January 12th) afternoon, DLRCoCo gave a National Water Sports Campus update to stakeholders, including waterfront yacht clubs, national governing bodies and marine industry leaders.
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