Latest News & Announcements - Waterford City & County Council

15th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Waterford Estuary

The Waterford Rural Tourism Network’s most recent Learning Journey took place on May 7^th.

It was a day full of insightful stories, unique activities and delicious food all set against the backdrop of the stunning Waterford Estuary. This was the fourth in a series of Learning Journeys taking place across the five cluster areas of the Blackwater Valley, Comeragh, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary.

The Learning Journey gives local businesses the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of the tourism experiences and products located in the Waterford Estuary, with a view to strengthening relationships between businesses, creating itineraries for visitors, and promoting Waterford as a destination.

Thirty participants from Waterford’s tourism businesses and agencies were guided along the journey by Andrew Doherty of Tides & Tales. Andrew enlightened the participants about the history and heritage of the area and was an incredibly knowledgeable and engaging tour guide.

At Jack Meade’s Andrew recounted the history of the landmark pub which dates back to 1705 and how locals harnessed the power of the tides to run the flour mill.

The second stop saw the group welcomed to Cheekpoint by Julie Doherty, The Cake Dame. Julie prepared some of the most delicious fayre for the participants to enjoy at the Suir Inn.

Nancy, Jack and William Doherty who are working on a fascinating River Tourism project ‘The Reaper Revival’ informed the group about their restoration works, which will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the traditional fishing methods and the local maritime history of the area while onboard.

The group took to the water with Southeast Charters Captain Walter & Osprey Viking Cruises Captain Andy. On the boats the participants travelled along the Estuary and learned about the history of the people and the place as well as the bespoke tours that both companies create for visitors.

Back on land, next stop was Passage East where the group received a ‘guard of honour’ from the Passage East Goats upon arrival. The group met Seán Furlong in The New Geneva, who gave the group a fascinating history lesson about Passage East, including the 1798 rebellion and the ‘Cockle women’.

Travelling along the Estuary to the Saratoga in Woodstown where the group were able to look at and learn about the oyster farms.

Martina O’Byrne of Artform in Dunmore East then welcomed the group to her gallery and showcased some the talented artists that she works with. She also spoke of how the Estuary and the local environment impact the art that is produced there.

A delicious seafood lunch at East Pier, organised by Elaine Power, was followed by a walk to the Shanooan where stories of the local fishing community were shared, with the cliff walk being highlighted before walking to the Dunmore East Adventure Centre.

At the Dunmore East Adventure Centre Karen Harris introduced the participants to the Aquapark and the harbour where locals and tourists were busy kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing. For the land activities there is everything from a caving adventure, a ropes course, climbing walls and archery.

The group met with The Fitness Beach Bum, Katie Sweeney, whose goal is to guide people to living a healthier lifestyle, through strength and conditioning, boxercise and personal training.

This Learning Journey to Waterford Estuary is part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme which is funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland and delivered by Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.

If you would like to find out more about the Waterford Rural Tourism Network or join one of the five Clusters in Waterford, please email caroline@runda.ie.

14th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Imminent arrival of Sustainable Transport Bridge significant milestone in North Quays Public Infrastructure Project

The imminent arrival of the bridge’s steel superstructure from its fabrication plant in Belgium will mark a significant progress milestone for Waterford’s North Quays Public Infrastructure Project. The superstructure is due to arrive in Waterford in the coming weeks for lifting and installation.

In parallel with the construction of the bridge substructure in the river in Waterford, the steel superstructure has been in the process of manufacture in Victor Buyck’s bespoke steel fabrication plant in Belgium.

The slender and streamlined superstructure has been architecturally designed, with a curved soffit on the underside, and varying width along its length to allow for viewing/resting areas etc. This bespoke shape makes it ideal for precision factory fabrication. The superstructure has been fabricated in four sections, which will be supported on the four concrete piers already constructed in the river.

The bridge has a central opening bascule span to facilitate river traffic. The operation and control of the central opening span has required the manufacture and assembly of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical components and instrumentation.

Qualter Hall, based in England, is the subcontractor responsible for this work, and the automated system has been installed into the fabricated bridge sections by Qualter Hall’s engineers at the Victor Buyck factory. The bridge sections will therefore arrive on site fully fitted with mechanical and electrical units. Once the steel deck sections are in position and connected, the automated system for opening and closing the central span will be activated and tested.

The transport, lifting and installation of the four steel deck sections is a complex logistical and engineering challenge. The transport and lifting operations have been sub-contracted to Hebo, a Dutch company that specialises in these operations for bridges, shipping, ports, offshore wind turbines, etc.

The four bridge sections will be transported on two barges pulled by seagoing tugboats. Victor Buyck’s plant is located beside the Ghent–Terneuzen Canal which accesses out to the North Sea. The deck sections will be loaded onto barges, transported along the canal to the mouth of Antwerp Port and from there on open sea via the North Sea, English Channel and Celtic Sea to Waterford Estuary.

Subject to favourable weather and sea conditions, in particular wave height, this journey will take four to five days to complete. The tugboats will then transport the barges up the Waterford Estuary, past Dunmore East and Passage East to their first mooring point at Belview Port.

Separately, Hebo’s floating sheerleg crane, which will complete the lifting operation on site, will also be transported by sea to Belview Port. The transport of the barges and crane up Waterford Estuary will be closely coordinated with the Port of Waterford. Their onward voyage upstream from Belview Port to the bridge site will be scheduled during high incoming tides. Once on site it will take a couple of days to derig and mobilise the barges into their lifting positions. The four deck sections will then be lifted into position by the crane.

Temporary support frames that have been constructed in the river will initially support the sections pending their final integration into the permanent supporting piers. Safety is of paramount importance, and the lifting operation has very precise safety protocols and requires very slow and methodical progress with constant checks and monitoring during the operation.

The floating crane and barges will depart from Ghent this week, arriving in Belview Port & the North Quays site next week. Once derigged and mobilised, the lifting and installation of the four bridge sections will then proceed in the final week of May. The four lifts will be carried out over three to four days, thereafter the tugboats, barges and floating crane will be demobilised and depart.

The timelines for the operation are subject to change and disruption depending on conditions on the open seas.

The public infrastructure project is being developed ahead of the private SDZ development and the built interface between the two developments must be fully integrated and compatible.

The fast-tracking of integration works as part of construction of the SDZ will facilitate the opening of the bridge to the public in Q4 2026.

For further information visit www.waterfordnorthquays.ie

Image attached: Paul Poels Fotografie

14th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

RSA Urges Road Users to Be Aware of Sun Glare

Vision Zero

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging all road users to be aware of the dangers posed by sun glare as the sunny clear weather is set to continue this week.

Sun glare can result in drivers being temporarily blinded or dazzled by the intensity and brightness of the sun.

As clear, sunny conditions continue and high temperatures are forecast over the coming days, the RSA advises drivers to:

· Reduce the risk from sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sunglasses.

· Be aware of the dangers of sun glare when travelling east in the mornings and west later in the day.

· Be prepared and ensure you have adequate supplies of water; any delays to journeys could result in road users being stuck in traffic for a period of time in hot conditions. Children and pets are particularly at risk during these hot spells of weather.

· Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out. Make sure you have plenty of window washer fluid to clear flies/insects and excess dust from the road when driving.

· Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. Slow down and allow extra space when passing.

Sun glare affects all road users. Pedestrians, people who cycle and motorcyclists are advised to:

· Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.

· Use sun block when out walking and cycling.

Summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on our roads. In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard.

There can be a spike in pedestrian, people who cycle and motorcyclist casualties over the summer months as the fine weather brings more people out and about. As drivers, we need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected.

Please also see our sun glare weather warning video created in collaboration with Teresa Mannion here

For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see severe weather advice on the RSA website or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages

14th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Foley announces €500,000 in funding for playgrounds around the country

Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, has today announced that €500,000 has been awarded for 28 playgrounds and play areas around the country.

The Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation provides funding to support city and county councils in upgrading existing playgrounds or developing new playgrounds.
Many of the projects funded under this year’s scheme give particular focus to inclusion and access and will help to ensure that children with a diverse range of needs can avail of the benefits of high-quality play facilities alongside their peers. Some of these funded projects include the installation of:

Wheelchair-accessible seesaws
Inclusive Sensory Playground Equipment and inclusive play space
Upgraded accessibility features

Minister Foley said: “I am delighted to announce this capital funding that will directly benefit families and children in every corner of Ireland. These grants will enable city and county councils to create and upgrade playgrounds, making them more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. I want to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to the local authorities for their applications and I look forward to seeing the benefits these projects will provide to local communities for many years to come.”

The scheme offers maximum funding of up to €20,000 per project, an investment that will see positive impacts delivered to children and families across the country.
It was obligatory for councils to consult with local children and young people to receive any grant funding for playgrounds and play areas under the scheme. Councils also had to provide matching funding of at least 25 per cent of the cost of the project.

The provision of playgrounds for young children has improved in recent years with around 960 playgrounds available in 31 councils around the country.

Full Press Release

ENDS

13th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Europe Day Celebrated by Europe Direct Waterford & Team Europe

Europe Day, celebrated annually on May 9^th, marks the anniversary of the historic Schuman Declaration. The Schuman Declaration is the proposal considered to have laid the foundation for what is now the European Union. Ireland became a member of the EU in 1973. Europe Day serves as a symbol of peace and unity in Europe, celebrating the progress made through cooperation, solidarity, and shared values.

To mark this year’s celebrations, Europe Direct Waterford hosted a range of engaging events in collaboration with Waterford Libraries, Team Europe, European Commission and local schools.

A key highlight was a seminar presented by Gerard Arthurs of Team Europe at St. Paul’s Community College. Fifty senior cycle students and teachers attended the event, which was made possible thanks to the support of Hilary Cantwell, JCSP School Librarian. Mr. Arthurs, lecturer in International Relations and Politics at SETU, delivered a thought-provoking seminar titled “An Experiment in Integration to Transform our Political Economy and Society.”

Students of Economics, Geography, and History explored a wide range of topics, including the EU as an experiment in integration, its transformative impact on the Irish state, current challenges and opportunities, and the future of the European Union. Both Europe Direct Waterford and St. Paul’s Community College extend their sincere thanks to Mr. Arthurs for an impartial, insightful, and stimulating session, and look forward to continued collaboration in future events.

In another Europe Day activity, sixty 6th class students from Mount Sion visited Europe Direct Waterford at Central Library. During their visit, they received goody bags branded with the Europe Direct logo and participated in engaging discussions about the history and significance of Europe Day.

These events provided meaningful opportunities for students of all ages to deepen their understanding of the European Union and to celebrate the shared values that unite member states.

The Europe Direct Information Centre based in Central Library, Waterford City, is one of a network of local contact points that serve as the direct link between you and the EU Institutions. The Europe Direct Information Centre is a service which helps you find answers to your questions about the European Union.

Team Europe Direct is a network of independent and inspirational speakers and moderators, proficient in EU topics and communication, capable of conveying the activities of the EU to a broad audience and stimulating public debate about Europe.

13th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Book of Condolence for Garda Kevin Flatley

An online Book of Condolence is open for members of the public who wish to express their condolences to the family of Garda Kevin Flatley.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy said, “This is a numbing and tragic loss. Garda Flatley was a respected member of An Garda Síochána who dedicated 26 years of his life to keeping others safe. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues on their heartbreaking loss.”

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

All messages of sympathy will be sent to Garda Flatley’s family.

Online Book of Condolence is available at https://bit.ly/GardaKevinFlately-RIP

12th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Invasive Plant experts to launch Identification Guide to the Non-Native Invasive Plants

Ardmore Tidy Towns will host Dr. Fran Giaquinto and Phoebe O’Brien for the launch of their new Identification Guide to the Non-Native Invasive Plants of Britain and Ireland on Friday, May 16^th during Invasive Species Week.

This event is supported by Waterford City and County Council, the Heritage Council and the National Biodiversity Data Centre.

The afternoon will be filled with informative chats about the pressures of invasive plant species on our native flora, an insight into identification and an exploration of the actions that can be taken to prevent their spread.

Following the launch in The Round Tower Hotel, attendees will take a trip through the habitats of the village with both experts as they point out several species which are of concern in Ireland whilst also highlighting the important habitats that occur within this area that sits alongside the beautiful Ardmore Head Special Area of Conservation.

Marina Mulligan, Waterford City and County Council’s Biodiversity Officer said, “It is a privilege to have both experts working in Ardmore over the summer for what will undoubtedly be two impactful projects for the area – it is great to see the local community of Ardmore taking this initiative which will provide valuable information towards monitoring habitats at a county level.

“The impacts of invasive plants on natural habitats can be devastating as they outcompete native species. Due to their ability to spread quickly across an area, they can also reduce the diversity of plant life found within a habitat by reducing light and changing soil nutrients.

“This has knock-on consequences for insects, mammals, fish and birds who depend on certain plants for food, laying eggs or nesting. People may be aware of Japanese knotweed and Rhododendron but may not be aware of many other species like three-cornered leek, American skunk cabbage and Nuttall’s waterweed.”

Over the coming months, both botanists will be working closely with the local community on two significant biodiversity projects for the area.

The first will survey the flora of the Ardmore Cliff Walk funded under the NPWS Peatlands and Natura 2000 Community Engagement Fund, and the second will involve carrying out habitat surveys to produce a Community Biodiversity Action Plan for the village under Community Foundation Ireland’s Biodiversity Fund.

With Biodiversity Week coming up, more information on Waterford events will be posted on waterford_biodiversity (Instagram), www.biodiversityweek.ie and Waterford City and County Council website.

The launch takes place from 12noon to 3pm on Friday, May 16th in the Round Tower Hotel, Ardmore, Co. Waterford, which includes a fieldtrip to local habitats. The event is free to attend, and all are welcome.

12th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Launch of Public Consultation for SouthEast EV Strategy

“Region 5” consisting of Tipperary, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford City and County Councils are seeking public input to inform the development of a regional EV Strategy. The goal of the strategy is to address the challenges and opportunities in deploying EV charging infrastructure in the South-East region. Public consultation opened on May 1st and will run until 4pm on May 30th 2025. This consultation invites residents, stakeholders, and the general public to share their views and input on the future of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in their areas.

By developing a comprehensive network of strategically located charging stations, the strategy is intended to support the growing number of EVs on our roads, ensuring that all areas are adequately served and help meet our climate action targets. The Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan published for consultation by ZEVI (Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland) in 2024 sets out minimum charging capacity requirements for local authorities per geographical area. En-route charging along major highways and travel routes are being supported separately by Transport Infrastructure Ireland. As part of this regional consultation, stakeholders are asked to consider two key types of local charging infrastructure when providing their inputs:

Destination charging which involves installing charging stations at popular destinations such as shopping centres, hotels, and tourist attractions.
Neighbourhood charging focuses on providing charging options within residential areas,
making it easy for EV users to charge their vehicles convenient to their residence.

Your feedback will be instrumental in developing a comprehensive EV charging infrastructure strategy that meets the needs of our communities and facilitates sustainable transport. The questionnaire is accessible at the following web address (www.southeastevstrategy.com) from May 1st until 4pm on May 30th 2025.

12th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Southern Regional Assembly commemorates a decade of regional leadership

On Friday, May 9^th the Southern Regional Assembly commemorated a decade of regional leadership and European collaboration with a series of events, to mark Europe Day and ten years since the Assembly’s establishment.

At the heart of the celebrations was the official launch of the Assembly’s Corporate Plan 2024–2029, a forward-looking strategy that outlines the Assembly’s vision for the Southern Region over the next five years.

John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, addressed the elected Members of the Assembly at their monthly meeting. As a Waterford native, he reflected on the Assembly’s role in shaping balanced regional growth and Ireland’s deep connection with the European Union.

As part of the celebrations Minister Cummins visited Tír na nÓg @ Lady Lane, a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project site where refurbishment works have begun. Waterford City and County Council was awarded €7 million for the redevelopment of the site into a visitors attraction through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.

12th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Have Your Say: Identify Waterford’s Favourite Bathing Waters

Do you have a favourite place for a swim in Waterford? Whether it’s a bustling beach or a hidden gem along the coast, we want to hear from you.

Waterford City & County Council is inviting the public to help identify local bathing waters as part of an annual review under the Bathing Waters Directive and the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008. The aim is to ensure that water quality at these spots meets high safety standards — protecting the health of everyone who enjoys a dip.

Now’s your chance to have your say.

You can:

Comment on existing designated bathing waters to support their continued status
Suggest new locations that you think should be recognised and monitored

This public consultation is open to everyone — swimmers, paddleboarders, surfers, walkers, locals, and visitors alike. If there’s a spot you think deserves recognition (and regular water quality testing), we want to hear about it.

🗓️ Deadline for submissions: 26th September 2025

To take part, click the link below and make your submission online:
👉 https://bit.ly/BathingWaters2025

9th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Published: Weekly Planning Lists

Stay up-to-date with the latest planning applications and decisions in Waterford City and County. Each Friday, we publish a comprehensive list detailing new applications, permissions granted, and other updates. Access the latest planning lists here to stay informed about developments in your area.

See https://waterfordcouncil.ie/documents/planning-lists/

9th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Progress update on North Quays Public Infrastructure Project & Strategic Development Zone (SDZ)

At May’s Plenary Council meeting, elected representatives were updated of the progress of the North Quays project.

Michael Quinn, Director of Economic Development, Waterford City and County Council outlined that works are continuing in Ferrybank with the realigned Abbey Road and Dock Road due to be complete in July and October 2025 respectively.

The transport hub is progressing well, with mechanical and electrical installation, platforms and landscaping ongoing. Works to the platforms and rail track are continuing and the internal building fit out and external public entrance plaza at Dock Road will commence in the coming months. The transport hub is expected to be fully complete by Q2 2026 with final commissioning and opening by Irish Rail in early 2027.

The steel deck superstructure for the sustainable transport bridge, fabricated and fitted out at Victor Buyck Steel Construction’s production plant in Ghent, Belgium is due to be delivered by the end of May. The 207m bridge will be transported in four sections by sea-going barges from Ghent, via the Ghent–Terneuzen Canal, English Channel and Irish Sea to Belview Port and ultimately to the Waterford North Quays site. The delivery schedule is subject to final inspections as well as weather and sea conditions.

Once transported to Waterford, the rigging, lifting and installation procedures for the bridge will take around a week to complete. The bascule leaves for the opening central span will be tested and put into operation and finishing works, which include lighting, street furniture, and parapets, will commence once the bridge is installed and checked. The fast-tracking of integration works as part of construction of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) will facilitate the opening of the bridge to the public in Q4 2026. Details of a bridge naming public consultation will be announced shortly.

The public infrastructure project is being developed ahead of the private SDZ development and the built interface between the two developments must be fully integrated and compatible. The planning, design and construction of the public infrastructure project has therefore needed to be responsive to evolving progress and proposals for the private development in order to ensure proper management of the overall North Quays project and to de-risk the overall project in terms of cost and programme.

In April, Waterford City and County Council granted planning permission to Harcourt Developments (t/a Hopcast Limited) for the development of the first phase of the North Quays SDZ.

The mixed-use development will include significant residential accommodation, as well as office and hotel accommodation, retail offerings and high-quality public realm spaces consisting of:

350 residential units
Office accommodation including ground floor creche & retail
160-bedroom hotel and conference centre
163-room aparthotel
Retail units on ground floor of residential blocks
High quality public realm spaces to include public plazas, riverside boardwalk and greenway.

The SDZ development places a significant emphasis on connecting the north and south quays and improving the public realm through investment in new high quality civic spaces. The direct benefit to Waterford of the investment in the SDZ Site is anticipated to be in excess of €350m over the next six years, with 200 people employed during construction and upwards of 1,500 jobs to be created following completion of phase one of the development.

Drone footage of North Quays Public Infrastructure Project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jBrflSQgoE

-ends-

9th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Dovida Launches in Waterford

On May 2^nd, Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Adam Wyse cut the ribbon as Dovida (formerly Home Instead) introduced its new brand.

Dovida provides person-centred home care to over 7,000 people across Ireland. While the majority of its clients are ageing adults (over 65), 10% of Dovida’s client base is under 65, and children under the age of 18 currently make up one per cent of the people the organisation supports.

9th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

“United in Diversity” in celebration of Europe Day

Today, Friday May 9^th marks Europe Day and the theme is “United in Diversity”, celebrating how Europeans have come together, in the form of the EU, to work for peace and prosperity, while at the same time being enriched by the continent’s many different cultures, traditions and languages.

In celebrating respect for diversity and openness to other cultures, Europe Direct Waterford in conjunction with Waterford Integration Services and Waterford Libraries, ran a school’s competition earlier in the year, which comprised of a poetry competition for second level students to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and World Poetry Day on March 21^st and an art competition for primary schools.

Today on Europe Day, Europe Direct Waterford is pleased to announce that the award ceremony and exhibition launch of the creative works produced as part of a competition for Waterford’s 3^rd Anti-Racism month will take place on Tuesday, June 3^rd in Waterford Central Library, Lady Lane.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Jason Murphy will present the winning entrants with their prizes and launch the exhibition on the day. All are welcome to attend on this special morning which recognises the extraordinary talent amongst Waterford’s school community.

Anti-Racism Month is an initiative of Waterford Integration Services and Waterford City and County Council to extend the marking of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and includes activities coinciding with International Women’s Day, St. Patrick’s Festival, Seachtain na nGaeilge, French Language Day and other days and festivals of note, as well as compiling a public calendar of theatre performances, film screenings and cultural events that mark the theme.

Europe Day, which takes place each year on 9 May marks the anniversary of the historic ‘Schuman declaration’, the proposal considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union. Ireland joined the then European Economic Community (EEC) in 1973.

The Anti-Racism award ceremony and exhibition launch takes place at 11.30am, Tuesday, June 3^rd in Waterford Central Library, Lady Lane, Waterford. All are welcome to attend.