THE WATERFRONT AREA AT NEWTOWNSMITH
THE WATERFRONT AREA AT NEWTOWNSMITH [THE INTERFACE WITH THE SEA IS IN VERY POOR CONDITION]
Condition of the Sea Interface: Challenges and Contributing Factors
Assessment of Current State and Associated Infrastructure
My collection of photographs highlights the "poor conditions" of the sea interface at Newtownsmith Sandycove, necessitating a detailed examination of its current state. While the Newtownsmith Promenade has seen some recent improvements, including the installation of a new path, polished sculpted bollards, solid benches, and a distinctive sea urchin sculpture, it continues to face significant structural and aesthetic challenges.
Specific concerns raised include the prevalent use of concrete for walls, steps, and curbs along the seafront from Dún Laoghaire to Sandycove. This contrasts sharply with the granite-faced walls found in other parts of Dublin and Dún Laoghaire, which are perceived as more aesthetically pleasing and appropriate. Even when walls were damaged and required access during construction over the past two years, they were reportedly re-erected with concrete instead of being replaced with granite, indicating a persistent pattern of material choices. Furthermore, the construction of the yellow promenade has led to the staining of the stunning basalt, incurring additional cleaning costs. A more pressing functional issue is the insufficient drainage, which results in frequent flooding of the flat grassy areas adjacent to the new path. A perceived lack of landscaping and visual relief on the seafront, beyond the sea urchin sculpture, contributes to a less appealing aesthetic, with calls from the community for more lamps, shrubs, and tree planting to enhance the promenade's atmosphere, akin to areas like Sandymount.
The recent Dún Laoghaire Baths project, while a significant revitalisation effort, involved the demolition of "dilapidated structures" due to their "poor state of repair". This indicates significant pre-existing decay in older coastal infrastructure at the site. The Newtownsmith promenade and its rocky shoreline are continuously exposed to natural forces, a reality captured by live webcam views of Dublin Bay from Scotsman's Bay.
Analysis of Factors Contributing to Poor Condition
Coastal Erosion and Storm Impacts
Coastal flooding is identified as a major and recurring issue for the Sandycove/Glasthule area, posing a significant threat to its infrastructure and residential areas. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) has formally acknowledged the potential for riverbank and coastal erosion within its administrative area, indicating a recognition of the ongoing environmental pressures.
Severe weather events have demonstrably impacted the area. For instance, Storm Emma in March 2018 caused significant damage, with seawater flooding roads and gardens in Newtownsmith and Glasthule. Powerful winds drove waves over existing sea barriers along the South Dublin coast, leading to road closures and observable "waves pounding Newtownsmith at Sandycove".
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has conducted national assessments of coastal flooding and erosion, including the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS), completed in 2013. This study provides strategic coastal flood hazard maps projecting risks up to 2100, underscoring the long-term nature of these challenges. While coastal protection and flooding issues are primarily the responsibility of local authorities, they can seek financial assistance from the OPW through the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, which offers funding for eligible projects.
Climate change is a critical exacerbating factor, projected to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heat waves, coastal flooding, and tropical storms, thereby escalating coastal vulnerability. Rising sea levels are also a significant contributing factor, with a mean sea-level rise of 41cm recorded in Cork Harbour between 1842 and 2019, aligning with global trends. Coastal erosion rates on "soft" coasts, such as those composed of glacial sediments, typically range from 0.2-0.5 metres per year, but can surge to 1-2 metres per year in certain locations. The nearby Killiney Bay is cited as an example of an area prone to slumping and coastal erosion, highlighting the regional vulnerability. Irish Rail has also noted an increasing trend of disruption to train services and damage to railway infrastructure due to storm events, attributing this partly to climate change and sea level rise, which are expected to significantly increase future disruptions along the coastal railway corridor.
The current "poor condition" of the waterfront is not simply a result of neglect or natural wear and tear, but a systemic vulnerability of historic coastal engineering to a rapidly changing climate. Victorian infrastructure, designed for a past climate reality, is now ageing and potentially insufficient to withstand contemporary environmental pressures, such as more frequent and intense storms and rising sea levels. This manifests as the observed damage, flooding, and erosion. This presents a significant challenge for heritage conservation: simply restoring infrastructure to its original Victorian state may not be sufficient or sustainable without incorporating robust climate resilience measures. This necessitates a critical re-evaluation of how authenticity is balanced with the imperative for adaptation in heritage management.
Historical Maintenance Issues and Material Choices
A 2004 newsletter from the Sandycove and Glasthule Residents Association (SGRA) explicitly raised concerns about the use of concrete for seafront walls, steps, and curbs, arguing that granite, used in other parts of Dublin and Dún Laoghaire, was a more appropriate and aesthetically superior material. The re-erection of concrete elements even after damage suggested a persistent pattern of material choices that deviated from a perceived higher standard of finish and historical authenticity. The SGRA also expressed profound concern regarding a proposal by the County Council to remove the Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) designation at Sandycove from the Development Plan. They contended that this would provide insufficient protection for the area's public realm, potentially leading to the proliferation of "ugly" additions, intrusive signage, and a general degradation of the heritage aesthetic.
A draft masterplan for Sandycove and Bullock Harbours further identified "lack of investment," "inappropriate materials," and a "lack of understanding of place and users" as key issues contributing to the condition of coastal infrastructure, echoing the community's sentiments. An earlier report from 2004 also mentioned that "recesses in the lower level of the seafront promenade, which had been used for anti-social purposes and had been in a disgraceful state, had been sealed up". This indicates both underlying structural issues and social factors impacting the perceived and actual condition of the promenade.
These observations suggest that the "poor conditions" of the sea interface are not solely physical; they also encompass a perceived degradation of the area's unique Victorian heritage aesthetic. This degradation stems from maintenance and upgrade choices that may have prioritised cost-efficiency or modern functionality over historical material integrity. While DLRCC has a Conservation Officer and heritage policies, the consistent application of these policies in daily maintenance and development, particularly concerning material authenticity and aesthetic integrity, has been a source of dissatisfaction. Effective "restoration" therefore requires not just engineering solutions but a strong, consistently applied heritage conservation policy that genuinely values original materials and design principles, coupled with transparent and meaningful community engagement to bridge this perceived gap.
Discussion of Identified Infrastructure Weaknesses and Drainage Concerns
Beyond the aesthetic and material concerns, specific functional weaknesses contribute to the poor condition. The promenade's design includes flat grassy ground beside the new path, which, due to insufficient drainage, frequently floods, impacting public amenity and potentially accelerating degradation. Planning observations for properties in the Newtownsmith area have also raised concerns about foul water and surface water drainage, specifically noting historical problems with sewage management since the Glasthule river was diverted. The Dún Laoghaire Baths project, a major coastal redevelopment, revealed significant pre-existing structural weaknesses in critical coastal infrastructure. This necessitated the stabilisation of retaining walls supporting Queen's Road and the DART cutting, as well as extensive underpinning and stabilisation for the Baths Pavilion Building, highlighting the underlying structural vulnerabilities of the older coastal defences.
Plans and Initiatives for Coastal Management and Infrastructure
Overview of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council's (DLRCC) Coastal Defence Strategies and Flood Risk Management Plans
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) serves as the primary local authority responsible for governing the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area, encompassing critical functions such as roads, urban planning and development, amenity, culture, and environmental management. The responsibility for investigating and addressing coastal protection and flooding issues primarily rests with these local authorities. DLRCC, in this capacity, is eligible to apply for funding from the Office of Public Works' (OPW) Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme to support relevant projects.
DLRCC has proactively adopted a Climate Action Plan for 2024-2029 in February 2024, which outlines a strategic vision for achieving a climate-resilient, biodiversity-rich, environmentally sustainable, and climate-neutral county by 2050. This comprehensive plan incorporates measures across six thematic areas, including a dedicated focus on Flood Resilience, demonstrating a commitment to addressing future climate impacts. The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 2022-2028 serves as the overarching policy document guiding development within the county, with explicit provisions for heritage and conservation. It also includes specific objectives pertaining to "waterfront development and harbour related uses," indicating a strategic interest in coastal areas like Newtownsmith. The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, an integral component of the County Development Plan, explicitly identifies Sandycove Harbour as an area susceptible to coastal flooding, underscoring the need for ongoing protective measures. DLRCC has also demonstrated its commitment to addressing coastal erosion through initiatives such as "Coastal Protection Measures at the Former Bray Landfill," indicating a proactive stance on shoreline management, although this specific project is not located at Newtownsmith.
Role of the Office of Public Works (OPW) in Coastal Protection
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is a significant Irish Government agency with a broad mandate that includes comprehensive property management and maintenance for State assets, alongside critical functions in flood risk management, encompassing both arterial drainage and coastal protection. The OPW maintains an extensive network of watercourse monitoring stations and has successfully executed numerous minor flood works and coastal protection projects nationwide, contributing to national resilience.
A key responsibility of the OPW involves conducting national assessments of coastal flooding and erosion. This includes the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS), completed in 2013, which provides essential strategic coastal flood hazard maps with projections extending to 2100. This study is crucial for informing policy and decision-making for local authorities in coastal areas. The OPW also administers the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, offering substantial funding (up to 90% of costs) for local authority projects costing up to €750,000, provided they meet eligibility criteria and demonstrate cost-benefit. While Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown has received funding for stream-related studies and works under this scheme, no specific projects directly addressing Newtownsmith's sea wall are explicitly listed in the available data.
Details of the Coastal Mobility Route (CMR) Upgrades and their Impact
DLRCC is currently in the process of upgrading the Coastal Mobility Route (CMR) from its initial temporary design to a high-quality permanent scheme. The CMR is an extensive 4.5 km cycle route that traverses the coastline from Blackrock to Sandycove, featuring a substantial 3.6 km section of two-way segregated cycle lane.
Key components of this upgrade include the replacement of existing rapid-build temporary kerbs with new, high-quality granite kerbs, significant improvements to pedestrian crossings, junction tightening, and enhancements to footpaths. The project also incorporates traffic calming measures, upgraded junctions, improved signage, and enhanced landscaping and public spaces along the route, specifically mentioning Marine Parade and Sandycove Harbour. The route directly passes through the Newtownsmith area. Furthermore, the Dún Laoghaire Baths project is designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing walkway at Newtownsmith, enhancing connectivity along the coast. The overarching objectives of the CMR are to promote walking and cycling as sustainable transport modes, enhance safety for all road users, and create attractive and inviting public spaces for rest and recreation. An independent evaluation conducted by TU Dublin has affirmed the positive impacts of the temporary CMR, both from a mobility and socio-economic perspective. The scheme is being implemented under Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act (1994), which pertains to traffic calming and minor road improvements. An initial screening for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Appropriate Assessment (AA) concluded that these were not required for the scheme, though this determination was subject to a referral questioning whether the scale of development necessitated a full EIA/AA.
The historical context shows that Victorian infrastructure was built for flood defence, and the current "poor condition" is linked to modern storm impacts. DLRCC's Climate Action Plan and the OPW's ICPSS represent a proactive, long-term strategy for climate change and flood risk up to 2100. This indicates a clear shift from reactive repairs to anticipatory risk management. However, the details of the Coastal Mobility Route and Dún Laoghaire Baths project consistently emphasise "high-quality permanent schemes," "new sea walls," "improved public realm," and "modern facilities". While these projects enhance the coastal interface and provide flood protection, their primary stated goals are active travel, accessibility, and resilience using contemporary engineering. There is no explicit mention of "restoring" Victorian elements to their original form within these larger projects, but rather upgrading or replacing them. This points to a pragmatic approach to infrastructure development, where climate resilience and public utility often take precedence, creating a potential tension with strict heritage conservation principles.
The CMR project's stated aim of replacing "rapid-build temporary kerbs with high-quality granite kerbs" indicates an aesthetic improvement. However, this contrasts sharply with the long-standing community dissatisfaction, documented as early as 2004, regarding the use of concrete instead of granite for seafront walls, steps, and curbs, even after damage. This historical pattern suggests that practical, and potentially cost-driven, material choices have previously been made, leading to a perceived degradation of the Victorian aesthetic. The Dún Laoghaire Baths project, while retaining the Pavilion, involved the demolition of other "dilapidated structures" and rebuilding , representing a loss of original fabric even if necessary for safety. This highlights that despite DLRCC having heritage policies, the practical implementation of large-scale coastal public works often prioritises modern engineering standards, durability, and public utility (mobility, flood defence) over strict adherence to original Victorian materials or architectural styles. This creates a fundamental challenge for "restoring" Victorian infrastructure, as modern interventions may supersede or significantly alter historical elements, resulting in a hybrid or modernised aesthetic rather than a true restoration. This ongoing tension underscores the difficulty in reconciling contemporary functional demands with the preservation of historical material integrity.
Restoration of Victorian Infrastructure: Current Status and Future Prospects
Examination of Specific Projects and their Relevance to Victorian Infrastructure
Dún Laoghaire Baths Redevelopment
The Dún Laoghaire Baths, originally known as the Royal Victoria Baths until 1920, were substantially rebuilt by the town council between 1905 and 1911. While technically Edwardian, their history is deeply intertwined with the late Victorian leisure boom, making them an integral part of the "old" coastal infrastructure relevant to the inquiry. The recent redevelopment project involved the retention and securing of the existing Baths Pavilion. However, it also necessitated the removal of "dilapidated structures" to the rear, which, despite being culturally significant early 20th-century "lido age" concrete buildings, were in a poor state of repair. The main Pavilion building was stabilised, enclosed, and weatherproofed, but other severely decayed buildings were demolished and rebuilt. This approach is more akin to a reconstruction and modernisation for contemporary public use, rather than a pure, comprehensive restoration of the entire historical complex. As part of the project, a new public route was created between Newtownsmith and the East Pier, along with the construction of new sea walls and a jetty. These "massive new sea walls" were built using 6-tonne rock armour to provide robust protection against storm damage, demonstrating a focus on resilience. Phase 1 of the Baths project was substantially completed in December 2022, with Phase 2A (Mobility/Accessibility Works) scheduled for completion in Q3 2024. The redeveloped Baths now offer enhanced public facilities for swimmers and sea sports enthusiasts, incorporating a café and artists' studios, demonstrating an adaptive reuse model that balances historical acknowledgment with modern utility.
People's Park and East Pier Restoration
In contrast to the adaptive reconstruction at the Baths, other projects in the Dún Laoghaire area demonstrate direct restoration of Victorian elements. The People's Park, originally opened in 1890 in the formal Victorian style, underwent an extensive restoration. This project successfully reclaimed an area previously separated from the seafront by the DART line, redeveloping it into a raised promenade. The restoration included the addition of bespoke seating and picnic sets, meticulously enhancing the park's historic layout and providing an inviting public space with prominent views. Similarly, the bandstand and sun shelter on Dún Laoghaire's East Pier, constructed in the 1890s (making them Victorian-era structures) from wrought and cast iron, were the subject of a major restoration project completed in 2010. These examples illustrate successful direct restoration of significant Victorian public assets within the broader Dún Laoghaire area, showcasing that dedicated restoration efforts are undertaken for specific, structurally viable Victorian elements.
The Dún Laoghaire Baths project illustrates a complex approach: retaining the main Pavilion while demolishing and rebuilding other "dilapidated structures" and constructing "massive new sea walls". This is not a purist restoration but a pragmatic redevelopment for public utility and safety. In contrast, the People's Park and East Pier bandstand saw more direct, authentic restoration. This suggests that DLRCC employs a selective, adaptive approach to its historic coastal infrastructure. Iconic, structurally viable elements may be meticulously restored, while more complex, severely degraded, or functionally critical structures might be rebuilt or replaced with modern, resilient alternatives, especially where public safety and climate adaptation are paramount. Therefore, future "restoration" of Victorian infrastructure in Newtownsmith is likely to continue this hybrid approach, balancing historical preservation with contemporary engineering, climate resilience, and public utility. This means that not all Victorian elements will be restored to their original form; some may be adapted, reconstructed, or replaced to meet modern standards and withstand environmental pressures. The term "restoration" in this context often encompasses a broader concept of revitalisation that may involve significant alteration of original fabric.
Discussion of Heritage Protection Policies
Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs)
Newtownsmith Sandycove is situated within the Sandycove Point Architectural Conservation Area (ACA). ACA designation is a crucial policy tool that forms the basis for preserving or enhancing an area's special character. It provides a level of control over the external appearance of buildings and limits otherwise exempted development, ensuring that changes are sympathetic to the area's unique qualities. DLRCC explicitly recognises that ACA designation helps to retain the special character of an area by guiding changes on a broader scale than just individual structures. The Sandycove ACA specifically highlights the area's "outstanding built heritage," which includes a diverse collection of Victorian terraced and villa-style residences, the acclaimed International Modernist house by Michael Scott, and various maritime, defensive, and bathing-associated buildings. Historically, in 2004, the Sandycove and Glasthule Residents Association (SGRA) expressed deep concern over a proposal to remove the Sandycove ACA from the Development Plan, arguing that it provided insufficient protection for the public realm and its heritage against insensitive development. DLRCC's current Development Plan 2022-2028 includes provisions for existing conservation areas and industrial heritage sites , encompassing significant structures like Dún Laoghaire Harbour and the Dublin and Kingstown Railway.
Record of Protected Structures (RPS)
The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 2022-2028 maintains a Record of Protected Structures (RPS), which lists individual buildings and structures of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social, or technical interest or value. Structures on the RPS are subject to specific statutory procedures and requirements, distinct from those applying to ACAs, even if they are located within an ACA. The DLRCC Conservation Officer plays a vital role in protecting the county's architectural heritage, including advising on planning applications concerning Protected Structures and developments within ACAs.
Identification of Ongoing Conservation Efforts and Potential for Future Victorian-era Restoration
While the Dún Laoghaire Baths project involved the demolition and rebuilding of certain structures for safety and functional reasons, it did retain and stabilise the main Pavilion, acknowledging the site's historical significance while creating a new public amenity. The successful restoration of the People's Park and the East Pier bandstand/sun shelter serve as strong precedents for effective Victorian-era restoration projects within the Dún Laoghaire area. These examples demonstrate that dedicated restoration efforts are undertaken for significant Victorian public assets.
DLRCC's broader commitment to heritage protection is enshrined in its Development Plan 2022-2028, which includes policies for conserving and improving existing housing stock and a general objective to protect heritage. The "Green Infrastructure Strategy" identifies opportunities to interpret and enhance the natural and cultural heritage in the Killiney/Dalkey/Sandycove areas, specifically mentioning industrial and transport heritage, and advocating for enhancing the visual art and monuments of Newtownsmith Park and People's Park to bolster the sense of place. There is also a general policy objective within the Development Plan to "Conserve and improve existing housing stock through supporting improvements and adaption of homes," which could extend to the Victorian residential properties in Newtownsmith.
The Sandycove and Glasthule Residents Association's documented concerns from 2004 regarding the proposed removal of the Sandycove ACA and the use of inappropriate materials highlight active and vocal community engagement. The fact that Sandycove Point is currently designated as an ACA suggests that community input, combined with broader heritage policy or a re-evaluation by the Council, played a role in its retention or designation. This indicates that local groups can be powerful advocates for heritage preservation, even when their priorities may conflict with other development considerations. Therefore, the success of future Victorian infrastructure restoration or sensitive adaptation in Newtownsmith will likely depend heavily on continued, well-organised community advocacy. Without sustained pressure and informed input from local groups, the default approach might lean towards functional modernisation over heritage-sensitive methods, particularly given the escalating challenges of climate change and budgetary constraints. This also suggests that DLRCC, while guided by its own plans, is responsive to public consultation and community concerns.
Condition of the Sea Interface: Challenges and Contributing Factors
Assessment of Current State and Associated Infrastructure
My collection of photographs highlights the "poor conditions" of the sea interface at Newtownsmith Sandycove, necessitating a detailed examination of its current state. While the Newtownsmith Promenade has seen some recent improvements, including the installation of a new path, polished sculpted bollards, solid benches, and a distinctive sea urchin sculpture, it continues to face significant structural and aesthetic challenges.
Specific concerns raised include the prevalent use of concrete for walls, steps, and curbs along the seafront from Dún Laoghaire to Sandycove. This contrasts sharply with the granite-faced walls found in other parts of Dublin and Dún Laoghaire, which are perceived as more aesthetically pleasing and appropriate. Even when walls were damaged and required access during construction over the past two years, they were reportedly re-erected with concrete instead of being replaced with granite, indicating a persistent pattern of material choices. Furthermore, the construction of the yellow promenade has led to the staining of the stunning basalt, incurring additional cleaning costs. A more pressing functional issue is the insufficient drainage, which results in frequent flooding of the flat grassy areas adjacent to the new path. A perceived lack of landscaping and visual relief on the seafront, beyond the sea urchin sculpture, contributes to a less appealing aesthetic, with calls from the community for more lamps, shrubs, and tree planting to enhance the promenade's atmosphere, akin to areas like Sandymount.
The recent Dún Laoghaire Baths project, while a significant revitalisation effort, involved the demolition of "dilapidated structures" due to their "poor state of repair". This indicates significant pre-existing decay in older coastal infrastructure at the site. The Newtownsmith promenade and its rocky shoreline are continuously exposed to natural forces, a reality captured by live webcam views of Dublin Bay from Scotsman's Bay.
Analysis of Factors Contributing to Poor Condition
Coastal Erosion and Storm Impacts
Coastal flooding is identified as a major and recurring issue for the Sandycove/Glasthule area, posing a significant threat to its infrastructure and residential areas. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) has formally acknowledged the potential for riverbank and coastal erosion within its administrative area, indicating a recognition of the ongoing environmental pressures.
Severe weather events have demonstrably impacted the area. For instance, Storm Emma in March 2018 caused significant damage, with seawater flooding roads and gardens in Newtownsmith and Glasthule. Powerful winds drove waves over existing sea barriers along the South Dublin coast, leading to road closures and observable "waves pounding Newtownsmith at Sandycove".
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has conducted national assessments of coastal flooding and erosion, including the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS), completed in 2013. This study provides strategic coastal flood hazard maps projecting risks up to 2100, underscoring the long-term nature of these challenges. While coastal protection and flooding issues are primarily the responsibility of local authorities, they can seek financial assistance from the OPW through the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, which offers funding for eligible projects.
Climate change is a critical exacerbating factor, projected to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heat waves, coastal flooding, and tropical storms, thereby escalating coastal vulnerability. Rising sea levels are also a significant contributing factor, with a mean sea-level rise of 41cm recorded in Cork Harbour between 1842 and 2019, aligning with global trends. Coastal erosion rates on "soft" coasts, such as those composed of glacial sediments, typically range from 0.2-0.5 metres per year, but can surge to 1-2 metres per year in certain locations. The nearby Killiney Bay is cited as an example of an area prone to slumping and coastal erosion, highlighting the regional vulnerability. Irish Rail has also noted an increasing trend of disruption to train services and damage to railway infrastructure due to storm events, attributing this partly to climate change and sea level rise, which are expected to significantly increase future disruptions along the coastal railway corridor.
The current "poor condition" of the waterfront is not simply a result of neglect or natural wear and tear, but a systemic vulnerability of historic coastal engineering to a rapidly changing climate. Victorian infrastructure, designed for a past climate reality, is now ageing and potentially insufficient to withstand contemporary environmental pressures, such as more frequent and intense storms and rising sea levels. This manifests as the observed damage, flooding, and erosion. This presents a significant challenge for heritage conservation: simply restoring infrastructure to its original Victorian state may not be sufficient or sustainable without incorporating robust climate resilience measures. This necessitates a critical re-evaluation of how authenticity is balanced with the imperative for adaptation in heritage management.
Historical Maintenance Issues and Material Choices
A 2004 newsletter from the Sandycove and Glasthule Residents Association (SGRA) explicitly raised concerns about the use of concrete for seafront walls, steps, and curbs, arguing that granite, used in other parts of Dublin and Dún Laoghaire, was a more appropriate and aesthetically superior material. The re-erection of concrete elements even after damage suggested a persistent pattern of material choices that deviated from a perceived higher standard of finish and historical authenticity. The SGRA also expressed profound concern regarding a proposal by the County Council to remove the Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) designation at Sandycove from the Development Plan. They contended that this would provide insufficient protection for the area's public realm, potentially leading to the proliferation of "ugly" additions, intrusive signage, and a general degradation of the heritage aesthetic.
A draft masterplan for Sandycove and Bullock Harbours further identified "lack of investment," "inappropriate materials," and a "lack of understanding of place and users" as key issues contributing to the condition of coastal infrastructure, echoing the community's sentiments. An earlier report from 2004 also mentioned that "recesses in the lower level of the seafront promenade, which had been used for anti-social purposes and had been in a disgraceful state, had been sealed up". This indicates both underlying structural issues and social factors impacting the perceived and actual condition of the promenade.
These observations suggest that the "poor conditions" of the sea interface are not solely physical; they also encompass a perceived degradation of the area's unique Victorian heritage aesthetic. This degradation stems from maintenance and upgrade choices that may have prioritised cost-efficiency or modern functionality over historical material integrity. While DLRCC has a Conservation Officer and heritage policies, the consistent application of these policies in daily maintenance and development, particularly concerning material authenticity and aesthetic integrity, has been a source of dissatisfaction. Effective "restoration" therefore requires not just engineering solutions but a strong, consistently applied heritage conservation policy that genuinely values original materials and design principles, coupled with transparent and meaningful community engagement to bridge this perceived gap.
Discussion of Identified Infrastructure Weaknesses and Drainage Concerns
Beyond the aesthetic and material concerns, specific functional weaknesses contribute to the poor condition. The promenade's design includes flat grassy ground beside the new path, which, due to insufficient drainage, frequently floods, impacting public amenity and potentially accelerating degradation. Planning observations for properties in the Newtownsmith area have also raised concerns about foul water and surface water drainage, specifically noting historical problems with sewage management since the Glasthule river was diverted. The Dún Laoghaire Baths project, a major coastal redevelopment, revealed significant pre-existing structural weaknesses in critical coastal infrastructure. This necessitated the stabilisation of retaining walls supporting Queen's Road and the DART cutting, as well as extensive underpinning and stabilisation for the Baths Pavilion Building, highlighting the underlying structural vulnerabilities of the older coastal defences.
Plans and Initiatives for Coastal Management and Infrastructure
Overview of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council's (DLRCC) Coastal Defence Strategies and Flood Risk Management Plans
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) serves as the primary local authority responsible for governing the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area, encompassing critical functions such as roads, urban planning and development, amenity, culture, and environmental management. The responsibility for investigating and addressing coastal protection and flooding issues primarily rests with these local authorities. DLRCC, in this capacity, is eligible to apply for funding from the Office of Public Works' (OPW) Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme to support relevant projects.
DLRCC has proactively adopted a Climate Action Plan for 2024-2029 in February 2024, which outlines a strategic vision for achieving a climate-resilient, biodiversity-rich, environmentally sustainable, and climate-neutral county by 2050. This comprehensive plan incorporates measures across six thematic areas, including a dedicated focus on Flood Resilience, demonstrating a commitment to addressing future climate impacts. The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 2022-2028 serves as the overarching policy document guiding development within the county, with explicit provisions for heritage and conservation. It also includes specific objectives pertaining to "waterfront development and harbour related uses," indicating a strategic interest in coastal areas like Newtownsmith. The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, an integral component of the County Development Plan, explicitly identifies Sandycove Harbour as an area susceptible to coastal flooding, underscoring the need for ongoing protective measures. DLRCC has also demonstrated its commitment to addressing coastal erosion through initiatives such as "Coastal Protection Measures at the Former Bray Landfill," indicating a proactive stance on shoreline management, although this specific project is not located at Newtownsmith.
Role of the Office of Public Works (OPW) in Coastal Protection
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is a significant Irish Government agency with a broad mandate that includes comprehensive property management and maintenance for State assets, alongside critical functions in flood risk management, encompassing both arterial drainage and coastal protection. The OPW maintains an extensive network of watercourse monitoring stations and has successfully executed numerous minor flood works and coastal protection projects nationwide, contributing to national resilience.
A key responsibility of the OPW involves conducting national assessments of coastal flooding and erosion. This includes the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS), completed in 2013, which provides essential strategic coastal flood hazard maps with projections extending to 2100. This study is crucial for informing policy and decision-making for local authorities in coastal areas. The OPW also administers the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, offering substantial funding (up to 90% of costs) for local authority projects costing up to €750,000, provided they meet eligibility criteria and demonstrate cost-benefit. While Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown has received funding for stream-related studies and works under this scheme, no specific projects directly addressing Newtownsmith's sea wall are explicitly listed in the available data.
Details of the Coastal Mobility Route (CMR) Upgrades and their Impact
DLRCC is currently in the process of upgrading the Coastal Mobility Route (CMR) from its initial temporary design to a high-quality permanent scheme. The CMR is an extensive 4.5 km cycle route that traverses the coastline from Blackrock to Sandycove, featuring a substantial 3.6 km section of two-way segregated cycle lane.
Key components of this upgrade include the replacement of existing rapid-build temporary kerbs with new, high-quality granite kerbs, significant improvements to pedestrian crossings, junction tightening, and enhancements to footpaths. The project also incorporates traffic calming measures, upgraded junctions, improved signage, and enhanced landscaping and public spaces along the route, specifically mentioning Marine Parade and Sandycove Harbour. The route directly passes through the Newtownsmith area. Furthermore, the Dún Laoghaire Baths project is designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing walkway at Newtownsmith, enhancing connectivity along the coast. The overarching objectives of the CMR are to promote walking and cycling as sustainable transport modes, enhance safety for all road users, and create attractive and inviting public spaces for rest and recreation. An independent evaluation conducted by TU Dublin has affirmed the positive impacts of the temporary CMR, both from a mobility and socio-economic perspective. The scheme is being implemented under Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act (1994), which pertains to traffic calming and minor road improvements. An initial screening for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Appropriate Assessment (AA) concluded that these were not required for the scheme, though this determination was subject to a referral questioning whether the scale of development necessitated a full EIA/AA.
The historical context shows that Victorian infrastructure was built for flood defence, and the current "poor condition" is linked to modern storm impacts. DLRCC's Climate Action Plan and the OPW's ICPSS represent a proactive, long-term strategy for climate change and flood risk up to 2100. This indicates a clear shift from reactive repairs to anticipatory risk management. However, the details of the Coastal Mobility Route and Dún Laoghaire Baths project consistently emphasise "high-quality permanent schemes," "new sea walls," "improved public realm," and "modern facilities". While these projects enhance the coastal interface and provide flood protection, their primary stated goals are active travel, accessibility, and resilience using contemporary engineering. There is no explicit mention of "restoring" Victorian elements to their original form within these larger projects, but rather upgrading or replacing them. This points to a pragmatic approach to infrastructure development, where climate resilience and public utility often take precedence, creating a potential tension with strict heritage conservation principles.
The CMR project's stated aim of replacing "rapid-build temporary kerbs with high-quality granite kerbs" indicates an aesthetic improvement. However, this contrasts sharply with the long-standing community dissatisfaction, documented as early as 2004, regarding the use of concrete instead of granite for seafront walls, steps, and curbs, even after damage. This historical pattern suggests that practical, and potentially cost-driven, material choices have previously been made, leading to a perceived degradation of the Victorian aesthetic. The Dún Laoghaire Baths project, while retaining the Pavilion, involved the demolition of other "dilapidated structures" and rebuilding , representing a loss of original fabric even if necessary for safety. This highlights that despite DLRCC having heritage policies, the practical implementation of large-scale coastal public works often prioritises modern engineering standards, durability, and public utility (mobility, flood defence) over strict adherence to original Victorian materials or architectural styles. This creates a fundamental challenge for "restoring" Victorian infrastructure, as modern interventions may supersede or significantly alter historical elements, resulting in a hybrid or modernised aesthetic rather than a true restoration. This ongoing tension underscores the difficulty in reconciling contemporary functional demands with the preservation of historical material integrity.
Restoration of Victorian Infrastructure: Current Status and Future Prospects
Examination of Specific Projects and their Relevance to Victorian Infrastructure
Dún Laoghaire Baths Redevelopment
The Dún Laoghaire Baths, originally known as the Royal Victoria Baths until 1920, were substantially rebuilt by the town council between 1905 and 1911. While technically Edwardian, their history is deeply intertwined with the late Victorian leisure boom, making them an integral part of the "old" coastal infrastructure relevant to the inquiry. The recent redevelopment project involved the retention and securing of the existing Baths Pavilion. However, it also necessitated the removal of "dilapidated structures" to the rear, which, despite being culturally significant early 20th-century "lido age" concrete buildings, were in a poor state of repair. The main Pavilion building was stabilised, enclosed, and weatherproofed, but other severely decayed buildings were demolished and rebuilt. This approach is more akin to a reconstruction and modernisation for contemporary public use, rather than a pure, comprehensive restoration of the entire historical complex. As part of the project, a new public route was created between Newtownsmith and the East Pier, along with the construction of new sea walls and a jetty. These "massive new sea walls" were built using 6-tonne rock armour to provide robust protection against storm damage, demonstrating a focus on resilience. Phase 1 of the Baths project was substantially completed in December 2022, with Phase 2A (Mobility/Accessibility Works) scheduled for completion in Q3 2024. The redeveloped Baths now offer enhanced public facilities for swimmers and sea sports enthusiasts, incorporating a café and artists' studios, demonstrating an adaptive reuse model that balances historical acknowledgment with modern utility.
People's Park and East Pier Restoration
In contrast to the adaptive reconstruction at the Baths, other projects in the Dún Laoghaire area demonstrate direct restoration of Victorian elements. The People's Park, originally opened in 1890 in the formal Victorian style, underwent an extensive restoration. This project successfully reclaimed an area previously separated from the seafront by the DART line, redeveloping it into a raised promenade. The restoration included the addition of bespoke seating and picnic sets, meticulously enhancing the park's historic layout and providing an inviting public space with prominent views. Similarly, the bandstand and sun shelter on Dún Laoghaire's East Pier, constructed in the 1890s (making them Victorian-era structures) from wrought and cast iron, were the subject of a major restoration project completed in 2010. These examples illustrate successful direct restoration of significant Victorian public assets within the broader Dún Laoghaire area, showcasing that dedicated restoration efforts are undertaken for specific, structurally viable Victorian elements.
The Dún Laoghaire Baths project illustrates a complex approach: retaining the main Pavilion while demolishing and rebuilding other "dilapidated structures" and constructing "massive new sea walls". This is not a purist restoration but a pragmatic redevelopment for public utility and safety. In contrast, the People's Park and East Pier bandstand saw more direct, authentic restoration. This suggests that DLRCC employs a selective, adaptive approach to its historic coastal infrastructure. Iconic, structurally viable elements may be meticulously restored, while more complex, severely degraded, or functionally critical structures might be rebuilt or replaced with modern, resilient alternatives, especially where public safety and climate adaptation are paramount. Therefore, future "restoration" of Victorian infrastructure in Newtownsmith is likely to continue this hybrid approach, balancing historical preservation with contemporary engineering, climate resilience, and public utility. This means that not all Victorian elements will be restored to their original form; some may be adapted, reconstructed, or replaced to meet modern standards and withstand environmental pressures. The term "restoration" in this context often encompasses a broader concept of revitalisation that may involve significant alteration of original fabric.
Discussion of Heritage Protection Policies
Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs)
Newtownsmith Sandycove is situated within the Sandycove Point Architectural Conservation Area (ACA). ACA designation is a crucial policy tool that forms the basis for preserving or enhancing an area's special character. It provides a level of control over the external appearance of buildings and limits otherwise exempted development, ensuring that changes are sympathetic to the area's unique qualities. DLRCC explicitly recognises that ACA designation helps to retain the special character of an area by guiding changes on a broader scale than just individual structures. The Sandycove ACA specifically highlights the area's "outstanding built heritage," which includes a diverse collection of Victorian terraced and villa-style residences, the acclaimed International Modernist house by Michael Scott, and various maritime, defensive, and bathing-associated buildings. Historically, in 2004, the Sandycove and Glasthule Residents Association (SGRA) expressed deep concern over a proposal to remove the Sandycove ACA from the Development Plan, arguing that it provided insufficient protection for the public realm and its heritage against insensitive development. DLRCC's current Development Plan 2022-2028 includes provisions for existing conservation areas and industrial heritage sites , encompassing significant structures like Dún Laoghaire Harbour and the Dublin and Kingstown Railway.
Record of Protected Structures (RPS)
The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 2022-2028 maintains a Record of Protected Structures (RPS), which lists individual buildings and structures of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social, or technical interest or value. Structures on the RPS are subject to specific statutory procedures and requirements, distinct from those applying to ACAs, even if they are located within an ACA. The DLRCC Conservation Officer plays a vital role in protecting the county's architectural heritage, including advising on planning applications concerning Protected Structures and developments within ACAs.
Identification of Ongoing Conservation Efforts and Potential for Future Victorian-era Restoration
While the Dún Laoghaire Baths project involved the demolition and rebuilding of certain structures for safety and functional reasons, it did retain and stabilise the main Pavilion, acknowledging the site's historical significance while creating a new public amenity. The successful restoration of the People's Park and the East Pier bandstand/sun shelter serve as strong precedents for effective Victorian-era restoration projects within the Dún Laoghaire area. These examples demonstrate that dedicated restoration efforts are undertaken for significant Victorian public assets.
DLRCC's broader commitment to heritage protection is enshrined in its Development Plan 2022-2028, which includes policies for conserving and improving existing housing stock and a general objective to protect heritage. The "Green Infrastructure Strategy" identifies opportunities to interpret and enhance the natural and cultural heritage in the Killiney/Dalkey/Sandycove areas, specifically mentioning industrial and transport heritage, and advocating for enhancing the visual art and monuments of Newtownsmith Park and People's Park to bolster the sense of place. There is also a general policy objective within the Development Plan to "Conserve and improve existing housing stock through supporting improvements and adaption of homes," which could extend to the Victorian residential properties in Newtownsmith.
The Sandycove and Glasthule Residents Association's documented concerns from 2004 regarding the proposed removal of the Sandycove ACA and the use of inappropriate materials highlight active and vocal community engagement. The fact that Sandycove Point is currently designated as an ACA suggests that community input, combined with broader heritage policy or a re-evaluation by the Council, played a role in its retention or designation. This indicates that local groups can be powerful advocates for heritage preservation, even when their priorities may conflict with other development considerations. Therefore, the success of future Victorian infrastructure restoration or sensitive adaptation in Newtownsmith will likely depend heavily on continued, well-organised community advocacy. Without sustained pressure and informed input from local groups, the default approach might lean towards functional modernisation over heritage-sensitive methods, particularly given the escalating challenges of climate change and budgetary constraints. This also suggests that DLRCC, while guided by its own plans, is responsive to public consultation and community concerns.