Public Access To Wicklow Head Agreed

Wicklow Lighthouse. Pic: Enda Kelly

atest press release from Jennifer Whitmore TD, issued on Thursday, August 29th 2024…

Deputy Jennifer Whitmore has welcomed news from Wicklow County Council that an agreement has been signed between Wicklow Municipal District and the landowner at Wicklow Lighthouse, marking a significant victory for the community and Keep Ireland Open on access rights to Wicklow Head.

The mutual agreement paves the way for unrestricted public access to the scenic Lighthouse Road, allowing residents and visitors alike to experience one of Wicklow’s most cherished landmarks up close.

Whitmore commented, “In the past year, community efforts have been instrumental in advocating for public access. A notable protest, supported by Keep Ireland Open, took place on September 16, 2023, highlighting the community’s desire for permanent access to the lighthouses and Wicklow Head. This agreement represents the culmination of these efforts, ensuring that the natural beauty and historical significance of Wicklow Head can be enjoyed by all.

“Having attended the protest with Keep Ireland Open nearly a year ago last September, where we walked to the Lighthouse, I had the opportunity to talk to many concerned locals on the route. I know that news of this progress will be very welcome. This public walkway to Wicklow Head is an asset to the town and needs to be treated as such.”

“Under this new agreement, Wicklow County Council will enter into a lease for the relevant land, with the Council assuming full insurance responsibility. This development ensures that the Lighthouse Road, historically enjoyed by locals for recreation, exercise, and its breathtaking views, will remain open to the public without restriction.

Whitmore continued, “The path to this agreement has not been without its challenges and has been a contentious issue for quite a number of years causing ongoing concern for local residents. In recent years, locals faced arbitrary closures of parts of the access road, leading to confrontations and concerns over public rights. The road, which offers an accessible surface for exercise, birdwatching, photography, and other outdoor pursuits, has been a vital part of the community’s connection to the countryside

“The news that the lengthy negotiations between Wicklow Municipal District and the landowner at Wicklow Lighthouse have come to a mutual agreement is wonderful. With Wicklow County Council now taking over the lease of the access, this historic landmark can now be appreciated up close by the people of Wicklow.”

Local Social Democrats Councillor Danny Alvey added, “When I was canvassing in the recent local elections the issue of closed access to the Lighthouse walk was raised repeatedly, especially by residents in the wider Dunbur area, just this week I met with some of them and we walked the road together and passed many local families and friends enjoying this historic and scenic route.

“I know the staff in the Municipal District have been working hard to find a resolution to this issue and I commend them for securing this new lease agreement which will ensure the walk is fully reopened and can continue to be used and enjoyed by the public of Wicklow Town.”

“Despite these challenges, the Wicklow County Council has made commendable efforts, registering the Cliff Walk as a Right of Way and maintaining the looped cliff walk.

“However, the recent agreement ensures that the Lighthouse Road will be accessible to all, regardless of mobility, providing a safe and enjoyable route to one of Wicklow’s most iconic sites,” concluded Whitmore.