New one-way system for town in Wicklow edges closer as funding confirmed
The Wicklow PeopleThe long anticipated one way scheme in Rathdrum has taken a major step forward after councillors in Arklow offered unanimous support at their latest district meeting, marking what several members described as “the most significant transformation the town has seen in decades”.
The discussion followed a comprehensive review of public submissions, technical considerations, and the historical context of a project that has been in development for more than 20 years.
A total of 55 submissions were received during the consultation period, which have now been returned to consultants for further clarification, ensuring that each concern is addressed before the next stage of the process. Among the most prominent issues highlighted in the submissions was the request for a loading bay capable of accommodating articulated trucks.
Consultants confirmed that such a feature is not feasible within the current design, given the spatial constraints of the town centre. However, they will examine the possibility of providing a van-sized loading bay, which may offer a workable compromise for local businesses.
Other submissions focused on the placement of planters and seating, with some residents expressing a preference for no bollards or planters in certain areas. The question of undergrounding cables was also raised, reflecting a desire to improve the visual appearance of the streetscape.
Officials noted that, while these suggestions are being considered, no major amendments will be made to the plan.
Cllr Pat Kennedy delivered one of the most reflective contributions of the meeting, reminding his colleagues that the one-way system was first proposed more than two decades ago. A previous attempt to advance the project fell through, but he emphasised that the current plan represents the culmination of eight years of sustained work.
Cllr Kennedy stressed the importance of retaining the town’s old granite kerbs, describing them as a vital part of Rathdrum’s heritage. He also highlighted the need to prioritise parking at Ardhavan House, particularly for elderly residents who rely on spaces at numbers 10, 11 and 12.
“This is the biggest change Rathdrum has ever seen,” he said, expressing hope that funding would continue to flow to support the project’s delivery.
District engineer Avril Hill, speaking on behalf of the design team, reassured councillors that there would be no significant reduction in parking on the lower section of Main Street. She noted that the positioning of planters is still under review and will be guided by planning regulations.
Ms Hill also clarified that Ardhaven is not included within the current scheme boundary and will require a topographical survey before any future works can be considered.
Cllr Pat Fitzgerald spoke about the scheme in the context of Rathdrum’s growing population. Cllr Sylvester Bourke said the project “sounds like it will be a great scheme”, adding that improved traffic management will be essential as the town continues to expand.
District manager Leonora Earls echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of making movement around the town as easy as possible. She confirmed that funding has already been secured, though the final cost has not yet been determined.
A quantity surveyor is currently assessing the scheme, with the total expected to be in the region of €500,000. Ms Earls noted that this figure will be refined as the design progresses.
Cllr Miriam Murphy described the scheme as a positive development that will enhance the local community, while Cllr Warren O’Toole said residents would appreciate the improvements once completed. Cllr Peir Leonard stressed the importance of public transparency, particularly regarding how much money is being spent and where.
The discussion concluded with unanimous support for the scheme, signalling a strong political mandate to proceed. While some technical questions remain under review, councillors agreed that the project represents a transformative opportunity for Rathdrum, one that balances heritage, accessibility, and modernisation.
The next stage will involve further engagement with consultants and engineers before looking for tenders for the project. With funding secured and political backing in place, the one way scheme is now positioned to move from a long discussed concept to tangible reality.
The initial idea for a one-way system on Rathdrum’s Main Street can be traced back to when it was formally included in the Rathdrum Local Area Plan 2006–2012. At the time, officials defended the system as necessary for the town's development, though it faced local conflict even then.
Plans for traffic restrictions, including a one-way layout, reached a flashpoint in August 2011 when local business owners held a public meeting to oppose the measures, fearing negative impacts on trade.
The meeting came about after the council proposed severe parking restrictions, including the removal of all parking spaces from Main Street. This was intended to ease the flow of traffic but was met with immediate hostility from the local community.
Over 100 people, primarily local business owners, gathered at the RDA Hall to voice their opposition. They argued that removing on-street parking would affect local trade and devastate the village's economic viability.
This period is often cited as the reason why more recent proposals (from late 2025 and early 2026) have been more heavily focused on public consultation and finding a balance between traffic movement and business needs.