#GREYSTONES HARBOUR – A Wicklow Councillor has urged developers Sispar to finish the marina in Greystones after a difficult meeting last night that saw plenty of interest in pleasure craft berths planned for the town's Harbour.
In a very positive sign the meeting in the Beach House Pub was 'overwhelmed' with people interested in berths but it was also announced that the marina works would not be completed before late Autumn.
Over 150 attended the meeting but many could not get into the main meeting room. There were a number of different concerns raised and disappointment that there are now further delays. A schematic drawing of the proposed marina layout was handed around the meeting room (see below).
There was some confusion whether the meeting was a further test of the market to see who was interested rather than a firm presentation and a plan of what was going to be provided. Other points raised and views about the meeting are appearing on bulletin boards here.
'These numbers were far more than the organisers expected and a great vote of confidence in it. While the delay is disappointing, this interest gives the developers the signal to proceed to invest in pontoons to get it open' said Councillor Derek Mitchell.
Many details such as security, fuel berths, sizes, visitor berths were discussed as the operator has to finalise these. Berth cost was also discussed and there were different views between the operator and the boat owners.
The marina map displayed at last night's meeting that shows proposed berthing arrangements in Greystones harbour
It is expected that Sispar will finalise their costs and hold another meeting within eight weeks.
'Last nights interest was exceptionally positive for the town. 50 berths were envisaged but with this level of demand 100 would seem the minimum needed. I urged the developer to move more quickly as I have felt the issue has been drifting for some months. This should put it on track'. Mitchell added.
Meanwhile Councillor Ciaran Hayden has responded to local comments that the new harbour looks like a 'concentration camp’. The Fianna Fail councillor said the comments ‘have been met with disdain by most harbour users'.
