Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Councillor Paul O'Brien, Turns the SOD on the Chapel Road Pedestrian and Cycle Infrastructure Improvement Scheme
On Tuesday, 3rd June Cathaoirleach Paul O’Brien marked the commencement of works for the Chapel Road (Delgany) Pedestrian and Cycle Infrastructure Improvement Scheme.
This project is an important and long-awaited step forward in delivering safer, more sustainable travel options for the community of Delgany and its surrounding areas.The scope of the project is both ambitious and essential which will see key sections of roadway being upgraded, Chapel Road—from the Convent Road Roundabout to Blacklion Manor Road—improving not only the footpaths and introducing new cycle track facilities but also widening and realigning the road to enhance safety and access for all road users. This will link in seamlessly with existing cycle and pedestrian facilities previously completed on Chapel Road, ensuring a continuous, accessible route for all. Importantly, the scheme also includes the construction of two permanent bus stops, further supporting sustainable, integrated travel options for the area.
This project aligns strongly with planning policy objectives—to enhance mobility, sustainability, and safety not just in Delgany and Greystones, but across all of County Wicklow.
Cllr Paul O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, said “This is a proud moment for Wicklow County Council and for everyone who has contributed to the development of this project. The scheme is being brought to life by the Roads Project Office within our Transportation and Infrastructure Delivery Directorate – a team committed to improving travel and connectivity in our county. This journey didn’t happen overnight. The project received Part 8 Planning approval in January 2020, and the necessary land was secured through a Compulsory Purchase Order approved by An Bord Pleanála in February 2022. Construction has now begun and we look forward to its completion in the second quarter of 2026.
I’d like to acknowledge the significant funding commitment which has made this project possible. It is 100% funded by Wicklow County Council through development contributions, a testament to our commitment to reinvesting in the communities that make Wicklow such a vibrant and connected place to live”.
Wicklow County Council Chief Executive Emer O’Gorman mentioned that “at its core, the scheme addresses the current gaps in pedestrian and cycle safety, particularly for our youngest road users—children walking or cycling to school. By delivering a safer and more coherent route, we are supporting healthier lifestyles, reducing traffic congestion and providing a more pleasant environment for all.
I would like to thank DBFL Consulting Engineers, for designing and managing the construction of this scheme, as well as our appointed contractor, Coffey Group, whose team is currently hard at work on site and to the communities who have supported and advocated for this work— thank you to everyone who helped make it possible. Thank you to everyone who helped make this project possible. It’s an exciting day for the community and a significant step forward for active travel in Wicklow.
We look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on the everyday lives of our residents and visitors alike”.
IMAGERY:
Picture 1: (L to R) Simon Coffey (Director of Coffey Construction), Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr Paul O'Brien, Emer O'Gorman (CE of Wicklow County Council), Cathaoirleach of the Greystones Municipal District Cllr Tom Fortune, Joe Lane (Director of Services, Wicklow County Council) and Kevin Sturgeon (Director of DBFL Consulting Engineers Ltd)
Picture 2: All attendees at the sod turning ceremony
Picture 3: All attendees at the sod turning ceremony