Support for Wicklow’s Coastal Community
Wicklow County Council has welcomed funding through the Fishery Harbour Centres and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme, aimed at supporting the maintenance and development of fishery and aquaculture linked marine infrastructure in their ownership.
- The funding will assist Wicklow County Council in improving the coastal community by enhancing harbour and fishing facilities.
- Supporting the local economy, businesses, and tourism, these projects will ensure Wicklow’s harbours are safer, more secure, and better equipped for users.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will administer the programme and co-fund up to 75pc of the eligible project costs, up to a maximum reimbursement of €187,500, with the local authority co-funding the remaining costs.
Projects Benefiting Wicklow Harbour and Port
| Project | Grant Amount | Estimated Project Cost |
|---|---|---|
| East Pier Underwater Concrete Repair | €187,500 | €249,700 |
| Main Entrance Works at Wicklow Port | €45,000 | €60,000 |
| Pedestrian and Vehicle Roller Gate Infrastructure at Arklow Harbour | €26,250 | €35,000 |
| Installation of CCTV and Access Control Systems at Wicklow and Arklow Harbours | €187,275 | €249,700 |
Benefits and Impact of the Funding
• Improved harbour depth and capacity for larger vessels to enter the harbour
• Enhanced security through the installation of CCTV and access control systems
• Improved accessibility for pedestrians and vehicles through the installation of roller gates
• Increased investment in the local community, economy, and tourism
Quotes from Local Authorities and Government Officials
“Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District Cllr Gail Dunne said: “The east pier has been undermined by the sea and it has been a long-term problem so any funding provided will prove really helpful.”
“Most ports in the country already have CCTV and access control systems in place. It’s important to have the proper security in place for the movement of timber and different things down at the harbour.”
“Tánaiste Simon Harris also welcomed the announcement and said this was a significant boost to marine infrastructure in Wicklow. “These projects will ensure our harbours are safer, more secure, and better equipped to support local communities, businesses, and tourism. I am proud to have supported this funding and will continue to advocate for investment in our coastal infrastructure.”
Enhancing Wicklow’s Coastal Community
The funding through the Fishery Harbour Centres and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme will support the development and maintenance of Wicklow’s coastal community, enhancing its harbour and fishing facilities for the benefit of local users. • A grant of €187,500 has been allocated towards underwater concrete repair works at the east pier in Wicklow Harbour, addressing a long-standing issue. • €45,000 has been allocated for main entrance works at Wicklow Port, which will improve the harbour’s depth and capacity for larger vessels. • A grant of €26,250 has been provided for pedestrian and vehicle roller gate infrastructure at Arklow Harbour, increasing accessibility and safety. • €187,275 has been reserved for the installation of CCTV and access control systems at Wicklow and Arklow Harbours, enhancing security and control. These projects will not only benefit the local economy, businesses, and tourism but also contribute to the overall development of Wicklow’s coastal community, supporting its growth and sustainability. With the introduction of these projects, Wicklow Harbour will be enhanced, becoming a more secure and attractive destination for mariners and tourists alike.
