Call for Wicklow County Council to ‘go big’ on Arklow Seaview Avenue masterplan
The Wicklow PeopleWicklow County Council is being asked to take all submissions into account for the Seaview Avenue Masterplan in Arklow and to “Go Big” with their proposal.
Wicklow Wexford Fine Gael TD Brian Brennan believes the town has lacked the basic facilities that most rural towns have to offer for too long.
The plan is being developed in conjunction with consultants Cunnane Stratton Reynolds, aimed at enhancing the recreational, sports, and amenity areas in Arklow.
The masterplan, which is being developed in tandem with a revised local planning framework focuses on the future development of the Seaview Avenue area, spanning from the Bridgewater outdoor car park to the old pitch and putt course, with future potential to link up with Porters Rock Beach and the foreshore.
Facility Upgrades: Proposing improvements for recreational and sports activities, including the potential development of a competition-level pump track.
Accessibility: Enhancing pedestrian facilities, widening footpaths, and adding shelters or railings to make the area more friendly for seniors and people with disabilities.
Multi-use Spaces: Exploring multipurpose uses such as occasional outdoor concerts and other community-led recreational uses.
Funding: The final masterplan is intended to support future applications for development funding streams.
These funding streams include a new programme of capital funding for arts and culture organisations, that will see capital supports for communities, including funding essential equipment for organisations such as amateur drama groups and musical societies. Specifications of the scheme are still being finalised, including the setting of eligibility criteria.
In the interim, under Stream E of the Cultural Capital Scheme, grants of up to €20,000 are available to not-for-profit dedicated arts and culture organisations at 85pc grant funding rate. Larger grants of up to €50,000 are provided under Stream E at a maximum grant funding rate of 70pc. Local authority owned facilities are subject to a maximum 60pc grant funding rate.
Another cultural capital funding scheme available is the €6 million pilot Artist Workspaces Scheme which was launched in June 2024. Under this scheme, local authorities are invited to propose projects which enable them to provide additional artist workspaces in their regions on a sustainable basis and produce workspaces that are fit for purpose, design focused, and accessible. Funding of up to €300,000 is available for densely populated local authority areas and €150,000 for other local authorities.
Deputy Brennan made a submission during the public consultation process, believing there is an opportunity “to create something really special for the people of the town and it is imperative that we pull out all the stops”.
“Arklow has the benefit of being a coastal town and the location at Seaview Avenue has potential to maximise the proximity to the coast while providing a space for a town park.”
The Wicklow Wexford TD believes significant development is required urgently in the Northern Waterfront Zone to facilitate the delivery of a town park fit to meet the needs of a vibrant growing town.
“At present, there is a piecemeal assortment of facilities and amenities, many in poor repair. The entire area feels largely unkempt with no sense of purpose or structure and without any defined boundary.”
Deputy Brennan has called on Wicklow County Council to present an ambitious plan that will create a much-needed facility for residents and visitors, incorporating the existing natural environment and transforming it into a community town park with state-of the-art leisure and recreational facilities.
“As part of my submission I am asking that the plan be ambitious, recognising and incorporating the cultural and natural history of the area. I am calling for a total and extensive upgrade of existing sports facilities, with the development of the running track and its environs to a standard that would make it eligible to host national and international track and field events.”
The deputy’s submission also calls for the protection of the coastal edge of the park, focusing on native species of plants and wildlife and ensuring that Park users can appreciate and interact with the coastal landscape.
“The duck pond, which lies at the heart of this area, must be preserved and enhanced, ensuring respect and protection of native flora and fauna while maximising the viewing points and ability to interact with the natural beauty of the area.
“A boundary should be put in place around the perimeter of the entire area, creating a defined “town park” feel with multiple access points.
“The entire area should be mapped and sectioned using information points and boards, directional signage and access pathways and cycle lanes throughout.”
The submission also proposes the installation of a sensory garden, autism friendly elements and families, a kids cycle park, coffee shop/café, toilets and water fountains at regular intervals.
“All facilities should utilise sustainable and environmentally friendly methods and materials in their development and operation”, he said. Deputy Brennan pledged to work with the Council for the people of Arklow to get the project over the line."
“I have previously asked that when the initial plans are being discussed that there is an initial meeting between the department and those presenting this proposal to ensure that all is in order with the application and to try to avoid rejection further down to line.”