Completion of Blackrock village’s €6m living streets project expected early next year

The scheme aims to improve the village's infrastructure.

The six million euro scheme aims to improve the walkability and cycling infrastructure of Blackrock village. 

Living Streets will expand the current footpaths, and add a “pocket park” to the village’s main street. Public seating and bicycle parking spaces will be increased, and there will be a reduction in the amount of car parking spots. 

“The Blackrock Living Streets project is currently under construction and is progressing well,” a Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council spokesperson told The Irish Independent. 

“Anticipated substantial completion will be in Q1 2027.”

The scheme, which started construction last October, is estimated to cost around 6.3 million euro excluding VAT, according to projections made in 2023.

The spokesperson said over three million of this projection was provided by the National Transport Authority, and the remainder has been funded by the council.

So far, the bus stop on Blackrock’s Main Street has been demolished and rebuilt in a new location to accommodate an expanded footpath.

“The road kerb line was subsequently adjusted to accommodate a wider, more accessible footpath and the creation of a small landscaped parklet. As a result, the existing bus stop was relocated,” the spokesperson said.

Along with this, a new bike lane is set for construction outside Blackrock’s library, to provide a connection to the Coastal Mobility Route.

The scheme will transition public services from a “temporary layout to a more permanent design”.

Councillor Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said the ‘Living Streets’ project will “deliver significant public realm upgrades for Blackrock including planting, play areas, and sustainable drainage system.”

“This extension of the active travel infrastructure expands our active travel network in the area, offering safer, greener transport options for residents and visitors to Blackrock.”

Featured image: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council