GOING FORWARD PHOTONIQUE WILL BE ADVERTISMENT FREE
GOING FORWARD PHOTONIQUE WILL BE ADVERTISMENT FREE
Originally Photographed 19 September 2024
I WAS SURPRISED THAT IT WAS RELOCATED SO SOON AFTER I PHOTOGRAPHED IT
* In The Year 2008 * In The Year 2011 * In The Year 2017 * Henrietta Back In 2010
JUNE 2026 UPDATE
A Chapter Closed: The HMS Portisham
For many years, the visual identity of Balbriggan was inextricably linked to the HMS Portisham. A former Ham-class inshore minesweeper, this 100-tonne vessel was, for its owner, a long-term project in maritime conversion. For the local council, it was a persistent planning and aesthetic challenge.
I have followed this story for years—not just as a photographer, but as someone interested in the intersection of property law and maritime heritage. The case became a landmark legal saga, with the Supreme Court eventually ruling against Fingal County Council’s initial attempts to label the vessel a nuisance.
During my recent visits to the area to document the ongoing "Our Balbriggan" rejuvenation works, it became clear that the harbour is entering a new phase. With the extensive redevelopment of the public realm, plazas, and tourist infrastructure, the space previously occupied by the Portisham has been reclaimed. The vessel is no longer a fixture of the quay, marking the end of a long, controversial chapter in the harbour’s industrial timeline.
Current Location: Following the legal and maintenance issues in Balbriggan, the vessel was relocated further south and was towed into Arklow Harbour in late 2024. According to locals the owner ran into difficulties while relocating to Arklow and began to take on water. After being towed into the harbour the boat was seized and destroyed - apparently this is nothing more than a local legend,
ORIGINAL SEPTEMBER 2024 POST
Current Location: Following the legal and maintenance issues in Balbriggan, the vessel was relocated further south and was towed into Arklow Harbour in late 2024. According to locals the owner ran into difficulties while relocating to Arklow and began to take on water. After being towed into the harbour the boat was seized and destroyed - apparently this is nothing more than a local legend,
History of HMS Portisham
Origins: The HMS Portisham was built in 1956 as part of the Ham-class inshore minesweepers, a fleet of vessels designed for clearing waterways of explosive hazards. These ships played a vital role in post-World War II naval operations, ensuring safe passage for other vessels.
Service: The Portisham served in the Royal Navy until 1964, after which it was transferred to the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service (RNXS) until 1983. During this time, it was involved in various operations, including assisting a ditched aircraft in 1973.
Civilian Life: In 1989, the Portisham was sold to a private owner with the intention of converting it into a liveaboard vessel. It eventually found its way to Ireland, where it was registered under the Irish flag.
Why is it in Balbriggan Harbour?
The Portisham's current location in Balbriggan Harbour is a result of a complex series of events and legal disputes.
Legal Proceedings: The owner of the Portisham has been involved in ongoing legal battles with Fingal County Council. The Council has argued that the vessel is in a dilapidated state and poses a safety risk, leading to court orders for its removal or scrapping.
Owner's Resistance: The owner contests these claims, asserting that the vessel is safe and that the Council's actions are unjustified. They have also highlighted the fact that the Portisham is their home, adding a human dimension to the dispute.
Current Status: As of now, the Portisham remains in Balbriggan Harbour, caught in a legal stalemate. The Supreme Court's deferral of a final decision on the appeal further prolongs the uncertainty surrounding its future.
My Previous Blog Posts and Observations
My blog posts provide some insights into the Portisham's situation and the surrounding environment.
"Eyesore" or "Floating Junkyard"?: While the Council and some locals may view the Portisham as an eyesore, I expressed doubts about its safety risks. I also noted the accumulation of junk on the pier, contributing to the overall untidiness of the area.
Concerns about the Harbour: I lamented the state of Balbriggan Harbour for more than a decade, particularly the presence of the Portisham, the abandoned nightclub, and other unsightly elements. These detract from the natural beauty of the harbour and beach.
The HMS Portisham's story is a blend of naval history, legal complexities, and individual rights. Its presence in Balbriggan Harbour highlights the challenges of balancing preservation, safety concerns, and the rights of property owners. The future of the Portisham remains uncertain, but its story serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between humans, the sea, and the vessels that connect them.
The Harbour Is Currently Being Redeveloped
Details of the Project:
Key Features:
Multi-Purpose Plaza and Linear Park: A large, versatile space designed to host markets, events, and festivals, fostering a vibrant atmosphere.
Enhanced River Bracken: Improvements to the riverbank and surrounding areas, creating a more attractive natural environment. New Harbour Buildings: Construction of new buildings to support increased social and commercial activity, potentially including restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
Public Amenities: Provision of public toilets, changing places, and other facilities to enhance visitor experience.
Improved Access and Connectivity: Better pedestrian and cycling pathways, along with redesigned parking and traffic flows.
Green Spaces and Play Areas: Increased green spaces, seating areas, and play areas to provide more recreational opportunities.
Budget and Timeline: The project has a budget of approximately €15 million and is expected to be completed in late 2025.
Benefits: The redevelopment aims to bring numerous benefits to Balbriggan, including: Economic Boost: Increased tourism and commercial activity are expected to stimulate the local economy. Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved public spaces and amenities will provide residents with more enjoyable and accessible areas to relax and socialise. Environmental Enhancement: The project includes measures to improve the natural environment and promote sustainability.
Current Progress:
*Construction Commencement: Work on the project officially began in March 2024 with the sod-turning ceremony attended by government officials.
Ongoing Works: Currently, various construction activities are underway, including improvements to the piers, installation of water taps, waste collection areas, and seating.
Tendering Process: The final stage of the tendering process for the main construction works is currently in progress, indicating significant progress toward the project's realisation.
Implications for the HMS Portisham:
Conclusion:
* February 2026: High Resolution Images * April 2026: High Resolution Images * May 2026: High Resolution Images