This is the stark message reiterated by the consultants and Wicklow County Council to members of the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk Management Committee at their meeting held on Wednesday 25th February 2026.

The Committee received a presentation from RPS Consultants Ltd which highlighted the recent reports of further landsliding and regression on the Greystones side and the significant safety risks for those who continue to use the path, despite barriers erected to prevent access. These landslides are in slopes identified in the RPS report as having the highest risk of failure. Cracks developing in the pathway show that this is in imminent danger of collapse and is a significant safety concern. 

The members agreed to share the public safety message, noting that as given the unstable nature of these features and their proximity to the path they represent a significant risk to the path and any persons using the path.  It was noted that recent legal advice received gives the Council no option but to prohibit access and to keep the walk closed on public safety grounds.

The members also received a progress update on ongoing procurement of contractors to undertake detailed slope investigations and methodology required for the Bray side, all subject to environmental considerations.

A comprehensive discussion ensued and the members of the Committee discussed potential alternative interim engineering solutions and possible means to expedite the delivery of this project.  RPS are to assess an alternative interim option proposed and reaffirmed that they are examining any options that could possibly reduce the timeline of the project and this was welcomed by all present.

It was welcomed that Wicklow County Council has commenced discussions with affected landowners in relation to the proposed rerouting on the Greystones side.

Chairperson of the Committee, Councillor Erika Doyle welcomed the progress to date and reiterated that the Committee is united in its aim of working with Wicklow County Council towards safely reopening the Cliff Walk. She stated, “As always today's committee meeting proved useful, both in terms of receiving the most recent updates from consultants RPS and discussing next steps. I'm delighted that approaches have now been made to the landowners on the Greystones side, and I hope these talks are productive and proceed with a sense of urgency. 

Assessment continues the Bray side and specialists will carry out detailed inspections of the cliffs using rope equipment in the coming weeks. While I understand the frustration from the people who miss the walk, I want to reassure the public that the necessary work is taking place behind the scenes to get us to the next stage of this challenging project. 

Meanwhile the message from RPS today was stark. The Cliff Walk is unsafe and becoming more unsafe by the day. I urge people to take note of the safety advice and not access the walk at this time.”

Wicklow County Council remains committed to progressing with the project in a diligent, safe and environmentally sound manner and in the shortest possible timeframe.

The Cliff Walk remains closed due to the significant safety concerns. An alternative route is available.