Wicklow County Council, in partnership with Greystones Town Team, is excited to announce progress on a new heritage-led regeneration project called "Retracing Greystones." Gavin Campbell, director with Studio Myco, the consulting firm engaged for this project provided an update to attendees at a Greystones Town Team meeting on Wednesday.
Co-funded by The Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative (HTI) and Wicklow County Council, "Retracing Greystones" aims to enhance the streetscape and public realm through several initiatives, including:
- Reinforcing the tree-lined historic character of Church Road
- Improving accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists
- Planting trees and creating rain gardens to enhance resilience against climate change and biodiversity loss
- Developing adaptable spaces for local businesses to accommodate outdoor dining and provide gathering places with fixed seating.
Cllr. Lourda Scott, Cathaoirleach of the Greystones Municipal District, welcomed the initiative, stating, “The HTI aims to promote vibrant, viable, and attractive town centres that serve as hubs for living, working and visiting, while also functioning as social, cultural and recreational centres for the community. This project presents a wonderful opportunity for Greystones.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O'Gorman, commented that “Wicklow County Council is pleased to have secured funding under the Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative and we are delighted to work in partnership with Greystones Town Team and local businesses and residents to maximise on the opportunities offered by Greystones heritage assets”.
Tom O'Mahony, Chair of the Greystones Town Team, speaking after the presentation said “This heritage-led regeneration plan focuses on developing underutilised heritage assets and sites, guiding appropriate development and promoting town-centre living in the historic core of Greystones. I would like to commend all the local businesses and residents who have actively engaged with the process and helped shape the proposals.”
By retracing Greystones' historic character and reimagining key sites, the project aims to foster a greater appreciation of the town's heritage value through sustainable and suitable development. This will help regenerate the historic core, creating a space for the community to recognise and cherish their town's unique heritage.
IMAGE: Picture of Greystones Main Street