Galway City Council has issued an advisory regarding a series of essential maintenance and improvement works at the Blackrock Diving Tower. Scheduled to take place throughout April and May 2026, the project is designed to enhance public safety and preserve the tower as a high-quality amenity for the local swimming community.

The planned works focus on three key areas of the structure:

1. Localised Walkway Resurfacing

To repair damage caused by successive storm events, the main access walkway will undergo targeted resurfacing. Due to the nature of the work and the time required for concrete to cure, the Tower will be closed to the public for up to three days during this phase. The Council has noted that these works are highly dependent on dry weather and low-tide conditions, and will be scheduled to minimise disruption where possible.

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2. New Western Stainless-Steel Stairs

A new stainless-steel staircase will be installed on the western side of the Tower, replacing a structure lost several years ago. This addition is expected to significantly improve safety by providing a dedicated secondary access and exit point to the water. Disruption to tower access during this installation is expected to be minimal.

3. Enhanced Safety Handrailing

In line with recommendations from a Risk Assessment by the International Life Saving Federation, additional handrailing will be installed on the western side of the access platform. This measure is intended to mitigate the risk of falls onto the rocks below, particularly as footfall on the western side is anticipated to increase following the installation of the new stairs. The Council confirmed that the unofficial access route at the rear of the changing-room wall will be maintained.

Galway City Council has apologised for any temporary inconvenience caused by the short-term closures and will issue further updates once exact dates are confirmed. The long-term goal of the investment remains the provision of a safer, more resilient environment for all users of the iconic Salthill landmark.