Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has warmly welcomed the announcement that Wicklow County Council has successfully acquired the 21-acre site at Magheramore Beach. He stated that the acquisition is a victory for public access and an important step in protecting an environmentally sensitive and ecologically significant area.
“I very warmly welcome the announcement that Wicklow County Council has successfully acquired the 21-acre site overlooking Magheramore Beach. This is a landmark moment for the people of Wicklow and for all who value access to our county’s outstanding natural heritage.
For many years, I have consistently called on the Council to secure this site and protect long-term access to what is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in the country. Magheramore has long been a much-loved amenity, attracting both locals and visitors, families and individuals, drawn to its clear waters, scenic beauty, and peaceful setting.
That’s why I was deeply disappointed when the Council missed out on previous opportunities to purchase the site — first in 2021, and again earlier this year when it was sold at auction for over the guide price. I voiced my concerns at the time about the growing uncertainty around public access to the beach, particularly with the presence of gated entrances and the potential for private development.
However, I want to commend Wicklow County Council for their persistence, their foresight, and their determination in ensuring that this time, they succeeded in securing the site for the public. The fact that the Council remained engaged and ready to act when the successful bidder ultimately did not proceed speaks volumes about their commitment to this issue and to the people of Wicklow.
This is not just a victory for public access — it’s a hugely important step in protecting an environmentally sensitive and ecologically significant area. The land overlooking Magheramore Beach forms part of a wider Special Area of Conservation and National Heritage Area. Its protection is aligned with the goals set out in the County Development Plan, and I am proud to see those ambitions now being realised in a very real and tangible way.
I want to sincerely thank all those within Wicklow County Council who have worked tirelessly and often behind the scenes to make this acquisition a reality. Their work deserves real recognition. This is a moment to celebrate what can be achieved when public representatives, Council officials, and the community all stand together with a shared goal.
I look forward to continuing to work constructively with the Council as plans are developed to manage this site in a way that protects its natural beauty and biodiversity while enhancing public access and enjoyment. Magheramore Beach is a treasure — and with this decision, we’ve taken a major step towards ensuring it remains so for generations to come.” Ends