15th February 2007
Appraisal of new marina for Dun Laoghaire Harbour, Ireland
Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company has appointed consultants to undertake a new study to evaluate the potential future demand for marina berths in Dun Laoghaire harbour and to identify possible locations within the Harbour for future marina development.
Dun Laoghaire harbour is one of the largest man-made harbours in the world and the Harbour Company has been at the forefront of marina development in Ireland. The decision to undertake the study comes against the background of significantly increased demand for marine leisure activities in recent years. This growth is projected to continue. Ireland’s marine tourism industry is estimated to be worth 631 million Euros, and the Irish Marine Federation forecasts that the marine leisure sector in Ireland could grow by 30% from 2005 to 2008.
The expansion of the existing marina which is currently being undertaken will increase the provision of marina berths in Dun Laoghaire harbour to in excess of 800. When complete, the marina will be the largest in Ireland.
Role of Marina Projects
Marina Projects is working alongside Fisher Associates and HR Wallingford on the study which requires an extensive consultation process with Harbour stakeholders and other interested parties. The study is made up of a number of elements:
- A market study to examine current and likely future trends and demands
- Identification of the short, medium and long term scope for development in terms of what capacity can be provided and when
- Examination of issues and priorities on hydrographic and navigation issues
- Identification of infrastructure options, associated requirements and likely environmental impact
- Identification of the leading options in terms of location, ability to meet future demand and response to physical, community and policy constraints.
- Consultation meetings with stakeholders in the Harbour including the yacht clubs, Commissioners of Irish Lights, Stena Line, the Naval Service, the marina operating company and existing marina berth holders’ representatives.
Commenting on the study, Michael Hanahoe, Chief Executive of the Harbour Company said, “There is clearly a high demand for marina space and this important study will allow the Company to consider future developments in the Harbour in an integrated and planned way.”