€10m Bettystown centre ‘at direct risk of erosion’ less than a year after opening
A Meath councillor has raised concerns over the recently opened Bettystown Civic Centre, warning that the €10m facility is now at “direct risk of coastal erosion” less than a year after its official opening.
Speaking after the February meeting of Bettystown/Laytown Municipal District, Sinn Féin councillor Maria White said it was confirmed to her that the building is at risk from erosion, as well as potential delays to the Mornington/Bettystown Flood Relief Scheme.
“This building was officially opened less than one year ago at a cost of over ten million euro. It is sickening to find out that this much needed community space is now at direct risk of erosion,” she said.
“This building is supposed to serve our community for many years ahead, however, the entire building is now in jeopardy due to coastal erosion and the lack of preparation, resources or funding to combat coastal erosion.”
The centre, opened in February last year, is a state-of-the-art, four-storey, 950 square metre landmark building on the beachfront.
It offers a wide range of services for the East Meath community, including separate adult and children’s libraries, a sensory room, a study hub/exhibition area, lifeguard station, beach management facilities, a beach wheelchair service, and accessible changing rooms.
Cllr White also raised concerns for the local Pitch n Putt Club, which has served the community since 1974 and will host the Leinster National later this year.
“The current approach taken by the council is one of managed realignment, allowing erosion to happen and for nature to take its course while the situation is monitored,” she said.
“This club has served our community since it came into operation in 1974, providing an invaluable recreational space, promoting wellbeing, and making a significant contribution to our community.”
“It is a club with an incredible legacy, home to world champions, and this year it will host the Leinster National for the first time. That is no small achievement. I strongly believe a more proactive and solutions-focussed approach must be pursued to ensure the long-term sustainability of this club.”
The councillor also warned that the €25m flood relief scheme, with an additional €7m required for coastal erosion measures, could face further delays due to a new “business case” requirement.
“This is not just disheartening; it is also extremely worrying for residents and business owners in the area. Flooding can destroy property and lives, all measures to prevent it must be taken immediately,” Cllr White said.
Meanwhile she welcomed updates to the draft plan for the Laytown Community Building, which now includes a pump park, outdoor classroom, and café.
While funding has yet to be secured, the project is ready to proceed to Part 8 planning, marking a “significant step in the right direction” for the area’s growing population.
“There is no doubt that our community needs this infrastructure, we needed it years ago. While ‘better late than never’ may apply, forward planning is absolutely key,” she added.