Harbour firm content with expansion decision

Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company has welcomed a decision by An Bord Pleanala to approve a 240-berth expansion to the State’s largest marina.

However, following an appeal by the Commissioners of Irish Lights and John O’Connor, the appeals board has said the firm must apply for a lease or licence from the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources before beginning.
The firm said the expansion would take place at the Royal Irish Yacht Club, Traders’ Wharf and Dun Laoghaire west pier.
The Commissioners of Irish Lights raised concerns about safe access for its tender, the Granuaile. It said the ship would be needed to negotiate a longer and indirect route closer to the west pier and Traders’ Wharf in a confined channel. It said long-held storm moorings within the harbour area to allow the first phase of the marina to be constructed.
The appeals board attached eight conditions to its approval. These include archaeological monitoring of dredging works and refurbishment of Traders’ Wharf public toilets.

The harbour company is responsible for Dun Laoghaire harbour. It said the development would cost around E3 million and would be funded by Marina Management and Marketing.
Around 120 berths would be built on to the existing marina pontoons. Another 120 berth would be built beside the west pier breakwater.