Galway community objects to commercial rezoning of former tourist office site
Galway City Council is looking to commercially zone the site of the old Tourist Office in Salthill, but the local community is speaking out against the idea.
The former Tourist Office, which neighboured the Atlantaquaria along the Prom, was demolished in January 2026 after sitting unused for 15 years.
Now the 0.15-hectare grassy site is in rezoning discussion under the Galway City Development Plan 2023-2029. Galway City Council seeks to change the site zoning from Natural Heritage, Recreation and Amenity to Commercial/Industrial.
The proposal also includes visions for a multi-story building that can range in commercial, retail, hospitality, cultural, educational and community uses.
Because of the historical value of the site, local businesses and Salthill residents are now urging people to make their views known during the statutory consultation calling for the existing zoning to remain.
Local businesses claim it is “imperative” to keep the site as a green space.
“This is an important part of what makes Salthill such a special place. We need to protect these spaces for the community and for future generations,” a spokesperson for the business community said.
Land zoning sets out a framework for a city on how it can be developed. It is a reserved function of Galway City Councillors to vote on and adopt changes to zoning on behalf of communities.
Consultation runs online or via mail through 4pm Thursday October 15 where residents, businesses and members of the Salthill community can make their submissions.