RAVENSWELL ROAD IN BRAY COUNTY WICKLOW
RAVENSWELL ROAD IN BRAY COUNTY WICKLOW [A LOT OF CHANGE IN THIS AREA]
Ravenswell Road, Bray: Infrastructure and Development Analysis
Bray, a coastal town situated in north County Wicklow, approximately 20 kilometers south of Dublin city center, holds a significant place in the region's history as a popular seaside resort.[1] Its development as a planned resort town in the 19th century was greatly facilitated by the extension of the Dublin and Kingstown Railway to Bray in 1854.
This historical context of Bray as a desirable coastal destination likely shapes the vision and marketing strategies of contemporary developments, aiming to blend its traditional seaside appeal with modern living standards. Ravenswell Road stands as a key area within Bray that has witnessed substantial infrastructure enhancements and residential expansion in recent years. This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the new flood defence infrastructure and the major ongoing Shoreside Park development located in the vicinity of Ravenswell Road, offering insights into the area's transformation.
Ravenswell Road is situated in Bray, within a short distance of the coastline. Its location positions it favourably, offering potential residents the allure of seaside living while remaining connected to the broader town and its amenities. The proximity to the sea, however, also necessitates the implementation of robust flood defence measures to ensure the area's long-term sustainability and attractiveness. In terms of connectivity, Ravenswell Road benefits from several public transportation options, including bus routes 45A, E1, L14, L15, and 45B. These bus services provide valuable links to various parts of Bray and potentially to Dublin. Additionally, the Bray/Daly train station, which offers DART and other rail services, is located approximately a 12-minute walk from Ravenswell Road. This accessibility to public transport enhances the area's appeal for commuters and individuals who prefer alternatives to private vehicles. Nearby bus stops, such as those at Cornerstone Church and Bray (Wicklow), Castle Street, further improve the accessibility of public transportation for residents and visitors. The immediate surroundings of Ravenswell Road include residential areas like Seapoint Court and Seapoint Court Apartments, as well as important community facilities such as Ravenswell Primary School. The presence of an educational institution like a primary school within the vicinity suggests that the area is likely attractive to families with young children.
The town of Bray has a history marked by significant flooding events, predominantly caused by the River Dargle. Notably, severe floods occurred in 1905 and 1986, resulting in substantial damage and disruption to the community. Hurricane Charlie in 1986 caused extensive damage to bridges, homes, and businesses in Bray, necessitating the evacuation of over a thousand people and flooding over 500 houses. Even earlier, in 1905, the River Dargle broke its banks, leading to a fatality and leaving hundreds homeless. These historical occurrences of significant flooding underscore the critical need for effective flood defence infrastructure to protect the lives and properties of Bray's residents, including those in the Ravenswell Road area.
In response to this history of flooding, the River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme was developed with the primary objective of safeguarding the town of Bray and its inhabitants from both fluvial (river) and tidal flooding events. The scheme was designed to provide protection against a 1-in-100-year fluvial flood and a 1-in-200-year tidal flood. The scope of the project encompassed a 3.3-kilometer stretch of the River Dargle, extending from Silverbridge at the N11 to the Harbour Bridge. The overall cost of this significant infrastructure undertaking amounted to €46 million, and the scheme was completed in October 2017, with an official opening ceremony held in November of the same year. This substantial investment and the successful completion of the River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme represent a major achievement in enhancing the safety and resilience of Bray, offering a more secure environment for both residents and businesses.
As part of the broader River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme, specific works were carried out on Ravenswell Road to enhance flood protection in the area. These works included the construction of new sections of earth embankments and the rebuilding of river walls, crucial for containing the river's flow during periods of high water. In addition to these core flood defence measures, "enhancement works" were undertaken, which significantly improved the aesthetic and functional aspects of Ravenswell Road. These enhancements included the creation of new and improved landscaping and walkways along the road. Reports from late 2014 indicated that masonry wall construction was underway on Ravenswell Road [19], and flood defence works continued into early 2015.[19] Furthermore, as part of the regeneration of public spaces, a new linear park was created at Ravenswell Road. While a separate project by Uisce Éireann involved the completion of nearly 400 meters of new gravity sewers on Ravenswell Road in the first quarter of 2023 , this also contributed to the overall infrastructure improvements in the area. The combination of essential flood protection measures and aesthetic enhancements not only reduces the risk of flooding but also improves the quality of life for residents by creating more attractive and usable public spaces.
Shoreside Park represents a significant new residential development situated within the larger Sea Gardens project. This development is located on the former Bray Golf Club lands, strategically positioned off Ravenswell Road and Dublin Road. The expansive Sea Gardens project covers an area of over 40 acres and notably straddles the administrative boundary between County Dublin and County Wicklow. The sheer scale of the Sea Gardens development, with Shoreside Park as a key component, signifies a major transformation of this part of Bray. The projected increase in local population due to this development will likely have a substantial impact on the demand for existing and future amenities and infrastructure in the area.
The residential units within the Sea Gardens development, including Shoreside Park, comprise a diverse range of housing options, including houses (terraced, with two, three, and four bedrooms), apartments, and duplexes. Planning applications indicate a significant number of units, such as one for 341 houses , another for 234 units granted permission in 2021, and a larger Coastal Quarter Strategic Housing Development (SHD) proposal for 586 units. The total number of homes within the entire Sea Gardens development is projected to be over 1,200. These new homes boast modern features such as A2 energy ratings, contemporary designs, spacious interiors, and high-quality finishes. Many properties also include gardens, balconies, and parking facilities. Specific features highlighted in property listings include Neff appliances, Italian marble-style tiling, ducts for EV charging , impressive ceiling heights of 2.7 meters , and the inclusion of a study in some homes.[5, 36] The emphasis on sustainability is evident in the A-rated energy efficiency of the homes. This focus on high-quality, energy-efficient residences with modern amenities suggests that Shoreside Park and Sea Gardens are designed to attract a specific demographic seeking contemporary coastal living with convenient access to Dublin.
The Sea Gardens development, encompassing Shoreside Park, is planned to include a comprehensive range of amenities designed to foster a vibrant community. These include high-quality public and communal open spaces, playgrounds, and a multi-use games area. The Market Square is envisioned as a central hub for the community, hosting food stalls, artisanal vendors, and pop-up events, and will also include a crèche, café, and convenience shop. The development will feature approximately 9 acres of public open space, including the 5-acre Central Park with landscaped gardens, a loop track for running and walking, and informal games courts, as well as the Linear Park connecting Corke Abbey Valley Park to Bray Harbour and the Coastal Gardens. This extensive array of planned amenities aims to create a self-sufficient and engaging community environment, significantly enhancing the appeal of Shoreside Park for families and individuals seeking a holistic living experience.
Shoreside Park benefits from its location off Ravenswell Road, providing residents with easy access to the surrounding area. Its proximity to bus routes operating on Ravenswell Road and the Bray DART station offers excellent transport connections. The development is also conveniently located near Ravenswell Primary School and other schools in the vicinity. Furthermore, residents will enjoy being within walking distance of Bray Sea Front, with its beautiful promenade, cafes, restaurants, and shops. This strategic location ensures that residents of Shoreside Park have convenient access to transport links, educational institutions, and a wide range of recreational and leisure amenities, making it a highly attractive residential option.
Construction is currently underway at the Sea Gardens development, indicating that Shoreside Park is actively being built. Numerous property listings and sales activities within Shoreside Park suggest strong interest and demand for these new homes. Listings from May 2025 show a 2-bedroom ground floor apartment for sale , a 3-bedroom mid-terrace house also for sale , and a 4-bedroom plus study end-of-terrace house available. Additionally, a 2-bedroom mid-terrace property is listed for rent. Records of recent sales in Shoreside Park, covering both County Wicklow and County Dublin, further confirm the active market. The Sea Gardens development is being rolled out in phases, with mentions of Phase 3 related to the former golf club lands and additional amenities planned for Phase Two, while the initial masterplan represents Phase One. The ongoing construction and vibrant sales and rental market strongly suggest a high level of interest in the Shoreside Park development, likely driven by its desirable location, the comprehensive amenities on offer, and the overall appeal of Bray as a coastal town with excellent connectivity.
Beyond the developments directly on and around Ravenswell Road, other significant projects are underway in Bray that will impact the broader area. The Bray DART Interchange Project aims to create a high-quality public realm and improve connectivity between walking, cycling, taxi, bus, and rail services at Bray Train Station. Construction on this project commenced in February 2024 and is anticipated to take approximately 12 months to complete, with a projected completion by March/April 2025. These improvements to the DART station interchange will further enhance the transport infrastructure available to residents of Ravenswell Road and Shoreside Park, making commuting to Dublin and other destinations more convenient and efficient. Another notable development is the housing project on Southern Cross Road by Lioncor Developments, which includes 160 apartments across four five-story blocks and a neighbourhood centre. The neighbourhood centre features essential amenities such as a Super Valu supermarket, a Safari creche, a pharmacy, and a vet. This development contributes to the overall residential growth in Bray and enhances the availability of local services. Additionally, the proposed Bray Sustainable Transport Bridge over the River Dargle is intended to provide a dedicated route for public transport, cyclists, and pedestrians, connecting the Bray station area with Dublin Road near the mouth of the river and the railway bridge. The bridge's design includes the capacity to accommodate a potential future Luas extension. This proposed infrastructure could significantly improve connectivity within Bray and promote sustainable transport options, potentially benefiting residents in the Ravenswell Road area and Shoreside Park by offering more efficient access to other parts of the town.
In conclusion, Ravenswell Road in Bray is undergoing a period of significant positive transformation, driven by strategic infrastructure investments and substantial residential development. The completed River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme has successfully mitigated the historical flood risks in the area while also enhancing the local environment through landscaping and new walkways. The ongoing Shoreside Park development, as part of the larger Sea Gardens project, is creating a modern coastal neighborhood with a wide array of amenities and excellent connectivity to transport links, schools, and leisure facilities. The active sales and rental market for properties in Shoreside Park reflects its strong appeal to prospective residents and investors. Furthermore, other major projects in the vicinity, such as the Bray DART Interchange upgrade and the Southern Cross Road housing development, contribute to the overall growth and modernisation of Bray. The proposed Bray Sustainable Transport Bridge holds the potential to further enhance the town's connectivity and sustainable transport infrastructure. Overall, Ravenswell Road and its surrounding area present a compelling prospect for those seeking a high-quality living environment in a vibrant coastal town with excellent amenities and accessibility.
Public Transport Options near Ravenswell Road:
Bus:
Route 45A: Nearest stops at Cornerstone Church and Bray (Wicklow), Castle Street (7-minute walk) .
Route E1: Nearest stop at Cornerstone Church (7-minute walk) .
Route L14: Nearest stop at Bray Station (walking distance varies) .
Route L15: Nearest stop at Bray Station (walking distance varies) .
Route 45B: Various stops near Ravenswell Road (refer to for details).
Train:
DART and RAIL services available at Bray / Daly station (approximately a 22-minute walk) .
Amenities at Sea Gardens (including Shoreside Park):
Green Spaces:
Central Park: 5 acres with landscaped gardens, a loop track for running and walking, and informal games courts .
Linear Park: Connects Corke Abbey Valley Park to Bray Harbour and Coastal Gardens .
Retail/Community:
Market Square: A central hub with food stalls, artisanal vendors, and pop-up events .
Crèche: On-site childcare facility .
Café: With alfresco seating .
Convenience Shop: For everyday necessities .
Recreational:
Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds within the development .
Multi-Use Games Area .
Ravenswell Road, Bray: Infrastructure and Development Analysis
Bray, a coastal town situated in north County Wicklow, approximately 20 kilometers south of Dublin city center, holds a significant place in the region's history as a popular seaside resort.[1] Its development as a planned resort town in the 19th century was greatly facilitated by the extension of the Dublin and Kingstown Railway to Bray in 1854.
This historical context of Bray as a desirable coastal destination likely shapes the vision and marketing strategies of contemporary developments, aiming to blend its traditional seaside appeal with modern living standards. Ravenswell Road stands as a key area within Bray that has witnessed substantial infrastructure enhancements and residential expansion in recent years. This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the new flood defence infrastructure and the major ongoing Shoreside Park development located in the vicinity of Ravenswell Road, offering insights into the area's transformation.
Ravenswell Road is situated in Bray, within a short distance of the coastline. Its location positions it favourably, offering potential residents the allure of seaside living while remaining connected to the broader town and its amenities. The proximity to the sea, however, also necessitates the implementation of robust flood defence measures to ensure the area's long-term sustainability and attractiveness. In terms of connectivity, Ravenswell Road benefits from several public transportation options, including bus routes 45A, E1, L14, L15, and 45B. These bus services provide valuable links to various parts of Bray and potentially to Dublin. Additionally, the Bray/Daly train station, which offers DART and other rail services, is located approximately a 12-minute walk from Ravenswell Road. This accessibility to public transport enhances the area's appeal for commuters and individuals who prefer alternatives to private vehicles. Nearby bus stops, such as those at Cornerstone Church and Bray (Wicklow), Castle Street, further improve the accessibility of public transportation for residents and visitors. The immediate surroundings of Ravenswell Road include residential areas like Seapoint Court and Seapoint Court Apartments, as well as important community facilities such as Ravenswell Primary School. The presence of an educational institution like a primary school within the vicinity suggests that the area is likely attractive to families with young children.
The town of Bray has a history marked by significant flooding events, predominantly caused by the River Dargle. Notably, severe floods occurred in 1905 and 1986, resulting in substantial damage and disruption to the community. Hurricane Charlie in 1986 caused extensive damage to bridges, homes, and businesses in Bray, necessitating the evacuation of over a thousand people and flooding over 500 houses. Even earlier, in 1905, the River Dargle broke its banks, leading to a fatality and leaving hundreds homeless. These historical occurrences of significant flooding underscore the critical need for effective flood defence infrastructure to protect the lives and properties of Bray's residents, including those in the Ravenswell Road area.
In response to this history of flooding, the River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme was developed with the primary objective of safeguarding the town of Bray and its inhabitants from both fluvial (river) and tidal flooding events. The scheme was designed to provide protection against a 1-in-100-year fluvial flood and a 1-in-200-year tidal flood. The scope of the project encompassed a 3.3-kilometer stretch of the River Dargle, extending from Silverbridge at the N11 to the Harbour Bridge. The overall cost of this significant infrastructure undertaking amounted to €46 million, and the scheme was completed in October 2017, with an official opening ceremony held in November of the same year. This substantial investment and the successful completion of the River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme represent a major achievement in enhancing the safety and resilience of Bray, offering a more secure environment for both residents and businesses.
As part of the broader River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme, specific works were carried out on Ravenswell Road to enhance flood protection in the area. These works included the construction of new sections of earth embankments and the rebuilding of river walls, crucial for containing the river's flow during periods of high water. In addition to these core flood defence measures, "enhancement works" were undertaken, which significantly improved the aesthetic and functional aspects of Ravenswell Road. These enhancements included the creation of new and improved landscaping and walkways along the road. Reports from late 2014 indicated that masonry wall construction was underway on Ravenswell Road [19], and flood defence works continued into early 2015.[19] Furthermore, as part of the regeneration of public spaces, a new linear park was created at Ravenswell Road. While a separate project by Uisce Éireann involved the completion of nearly 400 meters of new gravity sewers on Ravenswell Road in the first quarter of 2023 , this also contributed to the overall infrastructure improvements in the area. The combination of essential flood protection measures and aesthetic enhancements not only reduces the risk of flooding but also improves the quality of life for residents by creating more attractive and usable public spaces.
Shoreside Park represents a significant new residential development situated within the larger Sea Gardens project. This development is located on the former Bray Golf Club lands, strategically positioned off Ravenswell Road and Dublin Road. The expansive Sea Gardens project covers an area of over 40 acres and notably straddles the administrative boundary between County Dublin and County Wicklow. The sheer scale of the Sea Gardens development, with Shoreside Park as a key component, signifies a major transformation of this part of Bray. The projected increase in local population due to this development will likely have a substantial impact on the demand for existing and future amenities and infrastructure in the area.
The residential units within the Sea Gardens development, including Shoreside Park, comprise a diverse range of housing options, including houses (terraced, with two, three, and four bedrooms), apartments, and duplexes. Planning applications indicate a significant number of units, such as one for 341 houses , another for 234 units granted permission in 2021, and a larger Coastal Quarter Strategic Housing Development (SHD) proposal for 586 units. The total number of homes within the entire Sea Gardens development is projected to be over 1,200. These new homes boast modern features such as A2 energy ratings, contemporary designs, spacious interiors, and high-quality finishes. Many properties also include gardens, balconies, and parking facilities. Specific features highlighted in property listings include Neff appliances, Italian marble-style tiling, ducts for EV charging , impressive ceiling heights of 2.7 meters , and the inclusion of a study in some homes.[5, 36] The emphasis on sustainability is evident in the A-rated energy efficiency of the homes. This focus on high-quality, energy-efficient residences with modern amenities suggests that Shoreside Park and Sea Gardens are designed to attract a specific demographic seeking contemporary coastal living with convenient access to Dublin.
The Sea Gardens development, encompassing Shoreside Park, is planned to include a comprehensive range of amenities designed to foster a vibrant community. These include high-quality public and communal open spaces, playgrounds, and a multi-use games area. The Market Square is envisioned as a central hub for the community, hosting food stalls, artisanal vendors, and pop-up events, and will also include a crèche, café, and convenience shop. The development will feature approximately 9 acres of public open space, including the 5-acre Central Park with landscaped gardens, a loop track for running and walking, and informal games courts, as well as the Linear Park connecting Corke Abbey Valley Park to Bray Harbour and the Coastal Gardens. This extensive array of planned amenities aims to create a self-sufficient and engaging community environment, significantly enhancing the appeal of Shoreside Park for families and individuals seeking a holistic living experience.
Shoreside Park benefits from its location off Ravenswell Road, providing residents with easy access to the surrounding area. Its proximity to bus routes operating on Ravenswell Road and the Bray DART station offers excellent transport connections. The development is also conveniently located near Ravenswell Primary School and other schools in the vicinity. Furthermore, residents will enjoy being within walking distance of Bray Sea Front, with its beautiful promenade, cafes, restaurants, and shops. This strategic location ensures that residents of Shoreside Park have convenient access to transport links, educational institutions, and a wide range of recreational and leisure amenities, making it a highly attractive residential option.
Construction is currently underway at the Sea Gardens development, indicating that Shoreside Park is actively being built. Numerous property listings and sales activities within Shoreside Park suggest strong interest and demand for these new homes. Listings from May 2025 show a 2-bedroom ground floor apartment for sale , a 3-bedroom mid-terrace house also for sale , and a 4-bedroom plus study end-of-terrace house available. Additionally, a 2-bedroom mid-terrace property is listed for rent. Records of recent sales in Shoreside Park, covering both County Wicklow and County Dublin, further confirm the active market. The Sea Gardens development is being rolled out in phases, with mentions of Phase 3 related to the former golf club lands and additional amenities planned for Phase Two, while the initial masterplan represents Phase One. The ongoing construction and vibrant sales and rental market strongly suggest a high level of interest in the Shoreside Park development, likely driven by its desirable location, the comprehensive amenities on offer, and the overall appeal of Bray as a coastal town with excellent connectivity.
Beyond the developments directly on and around Ravenswell Road, other significant projects are underway in Bray that will impact the broader area. The Bray DART Interchange Project aims to create a high-quality public realm and improve connectivity between walking, cycling, taxi, bus, and rail services at Bray Train Station. Construction on this project commenced in February 2024 and is anticipated to take approximately 12 months to complete, with a projected completion by March/April 2025. These improvements to the DART station interchange will further enhance the transport infrastructure available to residents of Ravenswell Road and Shoreside Park, making commuting to Dublin and other destinations more convenient and efficient. Another notable development is the housing project on Southern Cross Road by Lioncor Developments, which includes 160 apartments across four five-story blocks and a neighbourhood centre. The neighbourhood centre features essential amenities such as a Super Valu supermarket, a Safari creche, a pharmacy, and a vet. This development contributes to the overall residential growth in Bray and enhances the availability of local services. Additionally, the proposed Bray Sustainable Transport Bridge over the River Dargle is intended to provide a dedicated route for public transport, cyclists, and pedestrians, connecting the Bray station area with Dublin Road near the mouth of the river and the railway bridge. The bridge's design includes the capacity to accommodate a potential future Luas extension. This proposed infrastructure could significantly improve connectivity within Bray and promote sustainable transport options, potentially benefiting residents in the Ravenswell Road area and Shoreside Park by offering more efficient access to other parts of the town.
In conclusion, Ravenswell Road in Bray is undergoing a period of significant positive transformation, driven by strategic infrastructure investments and substantial residential development. The completed River Dargle Flood Defence Scheme has successfully mitigated the historical flood risks in the area while also enhancing the local environment through landscaping and new walkways. The ongoing Shoreside Park development, as part of the larger Sea Gardens project, is creating a modern coastal neighborhood with a wide array of amenities and excellent connectivity to transport links, schools, and leisure facilities. The active sales and rental market for properties in Shoreside Park reflects its strong appeal to prospective residents and investors. Furthermore, other major projects in the vicinity, such as the Bray DART Interchange upgrade and the Southern Cross Road housing development, contribute to the overall growth and modernisation of Bray. The proposed Bray Sustainable Transport Bridge holds the potential to further enhance the town's connectivity and sustainable transport infrastructure. Overall, Ravenswell Road and its surrounding area present a compelling prospect for those seeking a high-quality living environment in a vibrant coastal town with excellent amenities and accessibility.
Public Transport Options near Ravenswell Road:
Bus:
Route 45A: Nearest stops at Cornerstone Church and Bray (Wicklow), Castle Street (7-minute walk) .
Route E1: Nearest stop at Cornerstone Church (7-minute walk) .
Route L14: Nearest stop at Bray Station (walking distance varies) .
Route L15: Nearest stop at Bray Station (walking distance varies) .
Route 45B: Various stops near Ravenswell Road (refer to for details).
Train:
DART and RAIL services available at Bray / Daly station (approximately a 22-minute walk) .
Amenities at Sea Gardens (including Shoreside Park):
Green Spaces:
Central Park: 5 acres with landscaped gardens, a loop track for running and walking, and informal games courts .
Linear Park: Connects Corke Abbey Valley Park to Bray Harbour and Coastal Gardens .
Retail/Community:
Market Square: A central hub with food stalls, artisanal vendors, and pop-up events .
Crèche: On-site childcare facility .
Café: With alfresco seating .
Convenience Shop: For everyday necessities .
Recreational:
Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds within the development .
Multi-Use Games Area .
RAVENSWELL ROAD IN BRAY COUNTY WICKLOW