THE STEPPED TERRACE IS A POPULAR METING PLACE
Dún Laoghaire Baths, a beloved landmark with a rich history, has recently undergone a major redevelopment project, breathing new life into this cherished coastal space. Despite a challenging journey, the baths were officially reopened in December 2022, providing a revitalised public amenity for the community and visitors alike.
The redevelopment, initially envisioned in 2004, aimed to transform the dilapidated baths into a modern, accessible facility that celebrates the town's connection to the sea. The €18 million project included the construction of a 35-metre jetty with built-in seating, a changing shelter, toilet facilities, the refurbishment of the Edwardian gazebo, and a new walkway from Newtownsmith. The former pavilion building was also repurposed into artist studios, a gallery, and a café, offering stunning views of Scotsman’s Bay.
However, the path to reopening was far from smooth. The project, originally slated for completion in 2020, was plagued by delays due to unforeseen challenges, including a spillage of plastic shards into Dublin Bay, storms, the need for marine wall reinforcement, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These setbacks resulted in significant cost overruns, with the final price tag reaching €18 million, €4.5 million over the initial budget.
Despite these challenges, the newly reopened baths have been met with enthusiasm from the community. However, the absence of a swimming pool, a feature highly sought by campaigners, has drawn some criticism.
Currently, an additional €2.5 million is being invested in further accessibility improvements, including ramps, steps, seating, and public lighting. These works, carried out by Cumnor Construction Ltd., are expected to take approximately 35 weeks and will enhance the overall visitor experience.
While the journey to revitalisation was long and complex, Dún Laoghaire Baths now stand as a testament to the town's resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage. This renewed public space offers a unique blend of history, art, and leisure, providing a welcoming destination for everyone to enjoy.
The redevelopment, initially envisioned in 2004, aimed to transform the dilapidated baths into a modern, accessible facility that celebrates the town's connection to the sea. The €18 million project included the construction of a 35-metre jetty with built-in seating, a changing shelter, toilet facilities, the refurbishment of the Edwardian gazebo, and a new walkway from Newtownsmith. The former pavilion building was also repurposed into artist studios, a gallery, and a café, offering stunning views of Scotsman’s Bay.
However, the path to reopening was far from smooth. The project, originally slated for completion in 2020, was plagued by delays due to unforeseen challenges, including a spillage of plastic shards into Dublin Bay, storms, the need for marine wall reinforcement, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These setbacks resulted in significant cost overruns, with the final price tag reaching €18 million, €4.5 million over the initial budget.
Despite these challenges, the newly reopened baths have been met with enthusiasm from the community. However, the absence of a swimming pool, a feature highly sought by campaigners, has drawn some criticism.
Currently, an additional €2.5 million is being invested in further accessibility improvements, including ramps, steps, seating, and public lighting. These works, carried out by Cumnor Construction Ltd., are expected to take approximately 35 weeks and will enhance the overall visitor experience.
While the journey to revitalisation was long and complex, Dún Laoghaire Baths now stand as a testament to the town's resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage. This renewed public space offers a unique blend of history, art, and leisure, providing a welcoming destination for everyone to enjoy.
THE STEPPED TERRACE IS A POPULAR METING PLACE