Wicklow County Council will vote on a variation to the county development plan later this year which if passed would allow the redevelopment of Greystones harbour and north beach.

Consultants commissioned by the county council have recommended a public private partnership scheme involving a new marina, a 16-acre public park, improved facilities for the coastguard, boat owners and local clubs and shopping, recreational and cultural facilities - as well as 375 residential units around the harbour. The county council says the development is needed to reverse coastal erosion at the north beach, built in 1888 - which in some places averages three metres a year. There are proposals to improve the public coastal walk from Greystones to Bray head via the harbour and marina quayside, alongside the new sandy beach and on through the new public park.

Civic and social amenities recommended by the consultants include an art gallery, visitors centre, library and museum, conference centre and creche. A mix of nine retail outlets, bars, a cafe and restaurant as well as a leisure centre and offices are also proposed. KPMG is organising a forum for potential developers on September 10th.

The variation to the county development plan is currently available from Greystones civic office and in County Hall, Wicklow. Written submissions should be sent to the Planning Department, Wicklow County Council before September 23rd.