March Reopening of Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk Faces Challenges

The target date of March 2026 for reopening the Bray to Greystones cliff walk is proving to be “extremely challenging,” according to the management committee overseeing the project. This assessment comes during the December meeting of the Cliff Walk Taskforce, which is chaired by Tánaiste Simon Harris. The committee emphasized its commitment to implementing both short-term and medium-term solutions to restore access to the popular walking route.

The cliff walk, which stretches over 7 kilometers, has been closed since 2021 due to multiple landslides. The closure has significantly impacted the local community, with estimates suggesting that it has cost the region millions of euros in lost revenue. Jim Power, an economic advisor to the Irish Tourism Industry, has highlighted that the prolonged closure has resulted in losses amounting to tens of millions of euros, according to data from Fáilte Ireland.

During the meeting, Harris stated he would reconvene the taskforce in two weeks for an update on progress. He urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively to reopen the walk—or as much of it as possible—by the target date of March 17, 2026, coinciding with St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The Friends of the Cliff Walk group expressed optimism regarding Harris’s timeline, noting that after nearly five years of closure, there is renewed hope for the walkway’s reopening.

Community Response and Progress Updates

Erika Doyle, the Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District and chair of the management committee, acknowledged the complexities involved in meeting the March target. In a recent Facebook post, she assured the community that work is progressing as swiftly as possible but reiterated that any deadline would be “extremely challenging for all concerned.” Doyle emphasized her commitment to reopening the cliff walk safely and promptly, while also adhering to proper procedures involving public safety and taxpayer funds.

The taskforce has agreed to expand its management committee by adding six new members: three representatives from Greystones and three from Bray. This move aims to enhance collaboration and streamline decision-making as the project advances. Doyle recognized the frustration felt by locals regarding the extended closure and reaffirmed her dedication to restoring access to the scenic route.

In recent discussions, both Wicklow County Council and Irish Rail have accepted a report from RPS consultant engineers, which outlines necessary actions for reopening the walk. The commitment from these organizations to implement the report’s recommendations within the shortest possible timeframe is a positive development for the community.

As the taskforce continues to work towards the reopening of the cliff walk, the focus remains on ensuring that the project is completed safely and efficiently. The community awaits further updates from the management committee following its next meeting, as hopes rise for a successful reopening in March 2026.