Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has officially launched the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan, signaling a major shift in the development of one of Ireland's most prominent coastal sites.

The plan, supported by Fáilte Ireland and developed by a multidisciplinary team led by Copenhagen's ARROW Architects, is the result of a collaborative co-design process intended to modernise the harbour while protecting its deep maritime history.

The strategy focuses on turning the currently fragmented space into a cohesive, accessible destination. By integrating the harbour more closely with the town, the council aims to create a multifunctional environment that prioritises sustainability, placemaking, and cultural identity.

Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, commented on the significance of the proposal: "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."

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Strategic Quarters and Projects The framework identifies more than 30 individual projects distributed across six distinct quarters:

• Urban Quarter

• East Pier Quarter

• Active Quarter

• Marina Quarter

• National Water Sports Campus Quarter

• West Pier and Gut

The masterplan is designed to be delivered over short, medium, and long-term phases. This includes the creation of a unified sequence of spaces that link Carlisle Pier, the Old Harbour, St Michael's Pier, and the Gut.

Several initiatives are already progressing under the new vision. The Metals Green project will introduce a 0.30-hectare green space on Harbour Road, featuring coastal planting and accessible pathways; public consultation for this site remains open until 6 February. Additionally, work is underway on the National Watersports Campus, a flagship development intended to provide high-level education in sailing and water safety.

A dedicated Masterplan Steering Group will oversee the delivery of the vision, ensuring design and engagement are aligned with various funding streams. Investment is expected to be drawn from the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), the Climate Action Fund, the Shared Island Fund, and contributions from Fáilte Ireland and Sport Ireland, alongside marine infrastructure funds from the Department of Agriculture.