Following a meeting of the Cliff Walk Management Committee on February 25th, Wicklow County Council have issued a stark warning to the public: Sections of the Cliff Walk are in imminent danger of collapse.
Despite existing barriers, landsliding and regression on the Greystones side have accelerated. Recent inspections have identified deep cracks in the pathway, signalling that the ground is no longer stable enough to support foot traffic.
Why is the walk still closed?
While we understand the frustration of locals and visitors alike, the closure is a matter of life and safety.
- Imminent Risk: Recent landslides have occurred in “high-risk” zones identified by geological experts.
- Legal Necessity: Based on formal legal advice, the Council must prohibit access to protect the public from significant safety risks.
- Structural Instability: The proximity of unstable slopes to the path means the ground could give way at any moment.
What is being done?
Progress is happening behind the scenes to find a long-term, safe solution for this beloved coastal route:
- Bray Side Investigations: Contractors are being procured for detailed slope investigations. You may soon see specialists using rope equipment to inspect the cliffs.
- Greystones Rerouting: Discussions have officially commenced with landowners on the Greystones side to explore rerouting the path away from the dangerous cliff edges.
- Expediting the Project: RPS Consultants are currently assessing interim engineering solutions and “fast-track” options to reduce the overall project timeline.
Councillor Erika Doyle, Chairperson of the Committee, commented: “The message is stark. The Cliff Walk is unsafe and becoming more unsafe by the day. I urge people to take note of the safety advice and not access the walk at this time.”
Wicklow County Council remains committed to progressing with the project in a diligent, safe and environmentally sound manner and in the shortest possible timeframe.
The Cliff Walk remains closed due to significant safety concerns. An alternative route is available.