A sweeping new masterplan for Dún Laoghaire Harbour has been unveiled, marking what local leaders have described as a “new chapter” in the future of the iconic coastal landmark. The ambitious strategy, launched by Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council, sets out a long-term vision to transform the harbour into a vibrant, multifunctional destination while respecting its deep maritime roots.
The plan outlines a framework to reimagine the historic harbour as a place that balances heritage, tourism, recreation, community life and environmental sustainability. Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Jim Gildea described the launch as a significant moment for the town and the wider county.
“This masterplan is a milestone for Dún Laoghaire,” he said. “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.”
Backed by Fáilte Ireland, the masterplan identifies more than 30 individual projects, which will be delivered on a phased basis over the short, medium and long term. These projects are organised into six distinct quarters, each with a specific focus and identity:
Urban Quarter
East Pier Quarter
Active Quarter
Marina Quarter
National Water Sports Campus Quarter
West Pier and the Gut
Together, these areas aim to reshape the harbour into a cohesive and accessible destination, rather than the fragmented and largely functional space it has been in the past.
Caroline Bocquel, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, welcomed the initiative, highlighting its importance from a tourism perspective. “Fáilte Ireland welcomes the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan, which sets out a coordinated and integrated plan for the redevelopment of the harbour as a thriving coastal destination,” she said. “It will appeal to both domestic and international visitors, and we look forward to working closely with the council to deliver the tourism actions identified in the plan.”
A central goal of the strategy is to reconnect the harbour with the town of Dún Laoghaire, creating a unified sequence of public spaces that link key areas such as Carlisle Pier, the Old Harbour, St Michael’s Pier and the Gut into a single, coherent experience for visitors and residents alike.
Several initiatives are already underway. These include the design phase of a National Water Sports Campus, which is expected to position Dún Laoghaire as a hub for aquatic activity and events. In addition, public consultation is currently open until February 6 on The Metals Green, a proposed 0.30-hectare green space along Harbour Road. Plans for the area include accessible walkways, coastal planting and a central gathering space designed to host activities such as yoga sessions, community events and pop-up kiosks.
The council says the masterplan represents a long-term commitment to ensuring Dún Laoghaire Harbour becomes a welcoming, inclusive and dynamic destination for generations to come.
