Councillors warn of ‘extremely unsafe’ access as Rosses Point second beach boardwalk faces fresh delays

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

The ongoing issue of access to the first and second beaches at Rosses Point was raised at the June meeting of Sligo County County with Councillors expressing their dissatisfaction at the rate of progress.

An update from Director of Services Jim Molloy was provided in relation to the progress in relation to the proposed boardwalk to the second beach. Mr Molloy noted negotiations are ongoing with the golf club regarding access but stressed there are challenges associated with the project due to the topography of the area.

Responding to the update which fell under ‘headed items’ at the start of the monthly meeting, Cllr Declan Bree said, “I wish to thank the Director of Services, Mr. Molloy, for this report. However, I am disappointed with the slow pace in progressing this project.

“We are all aware that since the protective rock armour was installed by the golf club in Rosses Point, access to the Second Beach has been significantly reduced.

“The existing ramp is the only public access to the beach, and this access is restricted during high tides when the bottom section of the ramp is underwater. Consequently, people can only safely access the beach for the short period when the tide recedes.

“The alternatives are to climb over a concrete fence or to scramble over the rock armour.

“While young or agile people can manage this obstacle course of fences and boulders, a very large number of people are denied the enjoyment of walking the second beach.

“A very large number of people are denied the enjoyment of walking the second beach”

“Furthermore, while signage is in place alerting the public to these challenges and displaying a tide timetable, the reality is that many people are unfamiliar with tide timetables and find them difficult to comprehend. “

Stressing the need for a solution to be found Cllr Bree said, “On occasion, people have even found themselves stranded on the northern end of the beach.”

Expressing his frustration at the progress being made, Cllr Bree commented, “Consultants were appointed to carry out the preliminary design for the proposed boardwalk in 2024.

“At the beginning of 2025, I was advised that a potential route had been identified and was to be discussed with relevant stakeholders, including the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the County Sligo Golf Club.

“However, when I sought an update last September, I was told that extensive works carried out by the golf club had significantly impacted the completed design work, putting the boardwalk project on hold.

Referring to the report furnished to Councillors ahead of the plenary meeting, Cllr Bree remarked, “I note from the report we have now received that there are significant challenges to be overcome, particularly in providing access to the third beach and ensuring universal access to the second beach due to topographical and environmental constraints and that there is now to be a fresh review of work carried out by the consultants.

“I would ask that we receive a further update on the project when that review is completed.”

Those sentiments were echoed by Cllr Thomas Walsh who insisted, “I don’t think the public will be satisfied. It is extremely unsafe. It is a complex issue, but we need to find a solution.”

“It is extremely unsafe. It is a complex issue, but we need to find a solution.”

Cllr Walsh asked for an update to be provided as quickly as possible adding, “It is one of our iconic beaches, access at times is completely unsafe. We have to be given these timelines. People who visit are mesmerized by what has happened. While it is nobody’s fault, it is up to us to find a solution.”

Mr Molloy added, “As soon as we have an update we will share with Councillors.”

The issue of access to the first beach was also discussed following a motion tabled by Cllr Bree which called for a report to be provided, “Outlining the proposals the Council has to repair or restore the concrete path leading to the first beach in Rosses Point.”

Speaking to the motion Cllr Bree and referring to a report furnished to Councillors, he again expressed his frustration at the rate of progress saying, “I am extremely disappointed with this report.

The damaged footpath approaching the first beach in Rosses Point which is making access difficult and posing a danger to swimmers when the path is covered by the tide

Detailing the issues of concern, Cllr Bree stated that the matter was first flagged with the Local Authority three months ago when he submitted photographs detailing the extent of the damage to the path leading to the first beach at Rosses Point.

“I brought this matter to the attention of the Council back in March and submitted photographs highlighting the dangerous condition of part of the slipway leading to the first beach.”

Stressing the need for access to be improved and highlighting the dangers currently posed, Cllr Bree said, “I pointed out then that it is particularly dangerous when it is covered by the tide, especially if a swimmer was not aware of its poor condition. The exposed rusty steel rods are particularly hazardous.

“Wheelchair users and parents with prams find it particularly difficult to access the beach when the tide recedes.

It is in dire need of work being carried out

“I note from the report we have received today that the Council will now undertake a survey of the path in the coming weeks, to determine the remedial measures to be applied in both the short and medium term to ensure safe access.

“We are told that once the survey is complete a report will be provided to the September meeting of the Council.”

Cllr Bree expressed his disappointment with the current situation pointing out that an injury could leave Sligo County Council liable and also suggested that the current condition of the access routes to the beaches could hind future blue flag hopes.

“This would indicate that the path to the beach will be left in its current dangerous condition over the busy Summer months.

“I would point out that should someone be injured due to the current condition of the path, this Council, or its insurers, could find itself liable.

“I also fear that the issue could affect the Blue Flag status of Rosses Point beach.

“I therefore would ask that the survey be carried out without further delay and that necessary remedial works be carried out as a matter of urgency.”

The motion was supported by Cllr Gino O’Boyle who agreed, “It is in dire need of work being carried out.”

Cllr Thomas Walsh also spoke in favour of the motion saying, “This is the exact same issue as Strandhill. It’s in shocking condition,” adding, “This was logged months ago.”

If it was privately owned it would be shut down by the regulator. We have to regulate ourselves.

Addressing the meeting Mr Molly confirmed, “There has been a delay, we are trying to sort out the issue. We are progressing with the issue in Strandhill. More substantive work is required to ensure they don’t deteriorate again.”

When asked by Cllr Bree, “Am I correct to say it will be fast tracked to make it safe,” Mr Molloy replied, “Yes.”

Cllr Donal Gilroy also spoke in favour of the motion saying, “If it was privately owned it would be shut down by the regulator. We have to regulate ourselves.”

The debate concluded with Cllr Bree insisting, “It is deadly dangerous.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.