Cliff Walk Task Force Assemble!

Pic: Robert Madden

atest press release from Simon Harris TD, issued on Friday, February 14th 2025…

Tánaiste Simon Harris TD has confirmed progress is being made in efforts to reopen the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk following a key meeting with stakeholders this week.

The first meeting of the task force meeting, which included representatives from Wicklow County Council, Irish Rail, the National Parks & Wildlife Service, and Fáilte Ireland, focused on identifying a safe and sustainable way forward for one of Wicklow’s most popular walking routes.

The 6.5-kilometer trail attracts between 250,000 and 300,000 visitors each year, has been closed due to safety concerns, including a major collapse and ongoing erosion issues.

The meeting heard of the serious safety concerns related to the cliff walk’s current status and of all the measures taking place to restore access while ensuring public safety and environmental integrity.

Speaking after the meeting, Tánaiste Simon Harris said: “The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk is a treasured route for locals and visitors.

“I know from speaking to people from the area and tourists that the closure of this route has caused serious frustration.

Thursday’s meeting was an important step forward, with all parties committed to finding a workable solution.

“There are serious challenges that need to be addressed and with long term solutions needed to make the cliff walk viable for years to come.

“While there are challenges to address, including erosion risks, land access, and environmental protections, it is clear to me that stakeholders are committed to making real progress toward a safe and viable reopening.”

One of the main topics under discussion was the feasibility of rerouting sections of the walk, where restoring the existing path would require extensive and costly repairs. A temporary reroute across lands owned by four stakeholders was proposed as a short-term measure while long-term solutions are being worked on.

The meeting also addressed concerns raised by the National Parks & Wildlife Service regarding the area’s Special Area of Conservation (SAC) designation.

Discussions with Irish Rail acknowledged their role in managing sections of the route.

Fáilte Ireland shared concerns of the economic impact on businesses and local communities from a tourism perspective.

Tánaiste Simon Harris added: “This was a constructive discussion with clear momentum behind it.

“There is still work to do, but with continued cooperation, we are on the right track and I stand ready to do whatever is necessary in Government to help drive the delivery of the reopening of this cliff walk.

“I look forward to further updates as we move closer to a solution.”

Next steps will include further engagement with relevant stakeholders, additional environmental assessments, and discussions on funding options. A clearer timeline for reopening is expected in the coming months.

The meeting was attended by chair Tánaiste Simon Harris, Wicklow CEO Emer O Gorman, Irish Rail CEO: Jim Meade, National Parks and Wildlife Service Director General Niall O’Donnchu and Failte Ireland Regional Manager Sarah Fitzpatrick.

Tánaiste Simon Harris concluded: “As your representative for County Wicklow in Dáil Éireann and in Government, I will continue to push for progress at every opportunity and will continue to issue regular updates on this issue which is so important for the people of Bray and Greystones.”

 You can find out more about The Friends Of The Cliff Walk here, and go explore a little history here.