Study backs plan to restore Salthill’s historic tidal pool
The report found that the project is both technically feasible and economically sound, with a restored tidal pool potentially completed by 2029 if funding is secured and planning approvals are obtained.
Under the proposal, the existing tidal pool would be refurbished and transformed into a seawater swimming facility measuring approximately 16.5 metres by 18 metres and irregular in shape.
The pool would refill naturally with seawater during high tides while retaining water when the tide drops, allowing it to remain functional during low tide.
And the existing nearby café, lifeguard station and changing rooms west of the pool would remain.
Commissioned by Galway City Council, the feasibility study examined the potential for developing a tidal pool along a 900-metre stretch of the Salthill shoreline between Blackrock Diving Tower and Palmer’s Rock slipway.
Early evaluation identified the site of the existing outdoor pool as the most promising location – before Leisureland was built, it was where generations of Galwegians were taught swimming.
Consultants concluded that the development of a tidal swimming pool there was technically achievable and could be integrated with other planned infrastructure projects in the area.
The report acknowledges that sea swimming has grown significantly in popularity in Galway, with Salthill now home to a thriving year-round swimming community.
The historic tidal pools beside Blackrock were originally constructed in 1930 but have remained unused for several decades, despite once being a popular recreational amenity.
The study notes that restoring the existing pool is the most practical option, as the shoreline forms part of the Galway Bay Complex Special Area of Conservation and Special Protection Area.
The proposed pool could also be adapted to account for sea level rise linked to climate change.
Future phases of the project could include improvements to the nearby plaza area, enhanced pedestrian connections between the prom, beach and changing facilities, and the possible development of additional swimming amenities inland, subject to funding and demand.
The report, seen by the Galway City Tribune, estimates annual operating and maintenance costs for the facility at approximately €100,000 excluding VAT.
The issue was raised at this month’s West Local Area Committee meeting by Cllr Alan Curran (SocDem), who sought an update on the project following publication of the feasibility study.
There is a significant cost to build out the existing pool, which is the recommendation in that report
Council officials told the meeting that there were currently “no plans this year” and noted that the cost of developing the facility would be significant.
“There is a significant cost to build out the existing pool, which is the recommendation in that report,” officials said.
“We have to see how it ties in with the overall plan for Salthill and we have no plans to progress it this year.”
The tidal pool, next to what is known as Ladies’ Beach in Salthill, played a significant role in the development of swimming in Galway.
The late Jimmy Cranny, dubbed ‘Mr Swimming’ was involved in teaching thousands of Galway children to swim there, and at Blackrock, before the city’s first public pool was opened in Leisureland.
He was a founder member of Galway Swimming Club and his contribution to developing the sport in Galway was recognised when the new pool at Leisureland, which was completed in the early 1970s, was the Cranny Pool in his honour.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.