The Dun Laoghaire baths will be unveiled to the public today a decade after its closure.
The historic landmark, which was first introduced in 1843 as the Royal Victorian Baths, will facilitate swimming, water sports and boasts studio space for local artists. The site will also host a gallery and a terraced café, offering visitors a delightful view over Scotsman’s Bay.
There has been some disappointment amongst locals as the site will open without a swimming pool, instead offering visitors a 35 metre swimming jetty. People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett criticised the move in a recent meeting on Dublin Bay Authority, although an empty space for a future tidal pool has been provided on site.
Councillor Mary Hanafin said of the baths: “The re-opening of the Dún Laoghaire Baths is a significant milestone for the Council and the people of the town. This well-known landmark has been an important part of the history and heritage of families all over the County- once again, we can welcome visitors to this popular bathing area.”
The project will expand in 2023 to include a walkway between Dun Laoghaire Pier and the baths. The terraced cafe, alongside a gallery, is expected to open in the New Year for public use.
The reopening has been welcomed by locals in the area, especially Anna Murray, who was born at Dun Laoghaire Baths in 1932. Anna’s father was caretaker of the facility until the late 1950s, with her family living on site for much of her upbringing.
The renovations to Dun Laoghaire are estimated to have exceeded €18 million. The project’s funding encountered some initial hiccups, as structural issues with the buildings required costs to go up.
It was mainly funded by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, although it also received contributions from the European Regional Development Fund. The site itself links on to several locations, including the People’s Park, the Lexicon library and The Metals scenic cycle route.
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