Final Cliff Walk Resurrection Report Published

Cliff Walk 11JUNE25

atest press release from the Cliff Walk Management Committee, issued on Monday, Sept 22nd 2025…

The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk Management Committee of Wicklow County Council convened on Monday, September 22nd, to receive the final report from RPS Consultants.

This report laid out possible future options including safety upgrades such as netting or sprayed concrete on the northern, Bray side. On the southern, Greystones side a re-route further inland was given as the preferred option.

The extensive study lays bare the enormous scale of the challenge in safeguarding and restoring the world renowned Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk. Following the meeting, the committee leaders, Cllr Erika Doyle and Cllr Stephen Stokes issued a joint statement calling for decisive Government investment into the Cliff Walk to secure its future.

RPS Consultants presented a detailed assessment of the current condition of the route to Wicklow County Councillors and Officials. It highlighted the substantial structural, environmental, and safety issues that must be addressed if the walk is to reopen in a sustainable way. Specifically there are seven areas that have been deemed high risk. The report makes it clear that the challenges go far beyond short term repairs and will require significant planning, resources, and Government support.

Cllr Erika Doyle, Chairperson of the Cliff Walk Management Committee of Wicklow County Council, underlined the importance of the report and the need for immediate commitment:

“This report is a wake-up call. The Cliff Walk is not just a trail — it is part of the identity of our community, a lifeline for local businesses, and a treasured destination for visitors from across Ireland and beyond. We cannot let it fade into memory. What we need now is leadership, ambition, and real investment to turn the findings of this report into a positive future for the Cliff Walk.

“While rerouting the Bray side of the Cliff Walk was suggested by RPS as a possible solution, my strong feeling, and the feedback I’ve gotten from the people of Bray, is that strengthening and repairing the existing walk is the preferred option.”

Vice Chairperson, Cllr Stephen Stokes, was unequivocal in his call for national Government to step up: “The scale of investment required is significant, but the return will be even greater. The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk is one of Ireland’s most iconic walking routes, and it cannot be allowed to deteriorate further. The Tánaiste, Simon Harris, now needs to get the cheque book ready. It’s time for the Government to invest decisively in this national treasure and ensure its long-term future.”

Cllr Doyle also praised the tireless efforts of local residents and businesses who have supported the walk’s future: “The passion and persistence of local people have kept the Cliff Walk on the agenda. They know better than anyone how much has been lost since the closure and how urgently we need action. Their voices must be heard, and this report gives us the foundation to finally deliver the restoration they deserve.”

Cllr Stokes added that the wider economic and tourism benefits make the project a sound investment:

“Every euro spent here will come back many times over in terms of tourism, job creation, and the wellbeing of local residents. On the Greystones side it is likely that the walk will need to move further inland to secure its long term future, due to coastal erosion. So we look forward to working with key stakeholders to secure this walk that is a way of life for people in North Wicklow and for visitors from around the world. This isn’t just a cost — it’s an opportunity. We need vision, and we need commitment at the highest level.”

The Cliff Walk has long been one of Leinster’s most beloved attractions, drawing walkers, families, and tourists year-round. Its closure has had a major impact on local people, as well as on businesses that depend on the steady flow of visitors the route traditionally brings.

Councillors Doyle and Stokes will now liaise with the other elected members from the Bray and Greystones Municipal Districts.

Following this the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk Management Committee will make a recommendation about the next steps.

You can check out the full RPS report here, find out more about the recent Cliff Walk shenanigans here, explore its history here, see how it’s being ignored by Irish Rail here, catch them in Greystones on Sept 24th and Wicklow Town on Sept 25th, plus check out the Friends of The Cliff Walk reaction here.