New era for Dundalk’s St Nicholas Quarter as €6m upgrade unveiled
New public lighting, modern street furniture, wider footpaths and multiple new pedestrian crossings were among the major upgrades officially unveiled as part of a €6million public realm investment in Dundalk’s historic St Nicholas Quarter.
The works were formally launched by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, who marked the completion of Phase One of the St Nicholas Quarter Rejuvenation Scheme.
The project is funded by the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and Louth County Council. Delivered by Glas Civil Engineering Ltd, work began in August 2024 to enhance the character, accessibility and attractiveness of the St Nicholas Quarter, creating a safer, more pedestrian-friendly environment for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Phase One of the scheme focused on Lower Bridge Street, extending from St Nicholas’ Church to Castletown Road, and onwards to Linenhall Street, Fair Green, Northgate Street, and the new Peace Park. As part of the initial works, footpaths were widened, new street lighting and street furniture were installed, and 14 new pedestrian crossings were created.
The scheme saw electrical cables moved underground to declutter the streetscape, while vital utilities were “future-proofed” to support water, electricity and broadband services.
Junctions have also been realigned, roads resurfaced and line-marked, and new green space developed at the Peace Park, with additional parking spaces provided to support local access.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “This project represents a major investment in the heart of the north side of the town and reflects the importance of this historic area to our community.
“The rejuvenation of the St Nicholas Quarter is already having a positive impact for those who live and work here, with safer streets, improved accessibility and a greatly enhanced public realm. Just as importantly, it is transforming the first impressions of visitors who enter the town through this quarter, creating a welcoming, vibrant and attractive gateway into Dundalk. This is a project the people of the area can be truly proud of.”
Minister James Browne TD said: "It's great to be able to stand here today and see this project coming to fruition. This is with the support of over €4.3 million in funding from my Department through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund for the first phase of this project.
“Thanks to the vision and hard work of Louth County Council, this historic area will now be more accessible, safer, and pedestrian-friendly for local residents, business owners, and visitors.
“I have also committed over €3.2 million in funding for phase two. That’s what this injection of funding is about - revitalising and regenerating our urban spaces.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: “The completion of Phase One of the St Nicholas Quarter Rejuvenation Scheme reflects the strategic approach Louth County Council is implementing across the county, one that focuses on delivering beautiful, inclusive and accessible public spaces that enhance community life and support health and wellbeing. Thoughtfully designed public realm projects such as this play a catalytic role in revitalising districts, strengthening a sense of place and creating towns and villages where people want to live, work and spend time.
“While today marks an important milestone, it is also a foundation for what comes next. We are very much looking forward to progressing Phase Two of the St Nicholas Quarter scheme, working with local stakeholders to continue the regeneration of this area and to ensure that the benefits of this investment are felt for generations to come.”
Phase Two of the scheme currently in development, focusing on the Backlands area of the St Nicholas Quarter. It is expected that this next phase in the regeneration of the area will progress to full public consultation and Part 8 planning in the coming months.