The first phase of Louth County Council’s St Nicholas Quarter Rejuvenation Scheme has now been completed.
The ambitious public realm initiative, which is being delivered by Glas Civil Engineering Ltd, will transform one of the town’s oldest and most historic areas into a more pedestrian-friendly, accessible, and visually appealing environment.
Funded under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and Louth County Council, the project commenced in October 2024. Phase One focused on Lower Bridge Street, extending from St Nicholas’ Church to Castletown Road and onwards to Linenhall Street, Fair Green, Northgate Street and the new Peace Park.
Phase Two will focus on the Backlands area of St Nicholas Quarter. BDP Ltd has been appointed as the consultant design team and is working with Louth County Council and local stakeholders on feasibility assessments, analysis and a design concept for the redevelopment of this area.
The finalised concept will be brought forward to Part 8 planning, including full public consultation. Concept development is nearing completion, and engagement with property owners and stakeholders is ongoing.
The St Nicholas Quarter Rejuvenation Scheme is guided by six key objectives: enhancing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, realigning and resurfacing the carriageway, reducing vehicle dominance, improving pedestrian safety through additional crossing points, rationalising parking, and increasing greenery through street trees and planting.
Significant upgrades have been carried out as part of the works. These include the widening of footpaths with new granite and exposed aggregate surfacing, the installation of improved street lighting and furniture, and the creation of 14 new pedestrian crossings.
Overhead electrical cables have been undergrounded to declutter the streetscape, and underground utilities have been future proofed to support water, electricity, and broadband services.
Additional improvements include the realignment of junctions, the construction of new green space at the Peace Park, and the resurfacing and line marking of roads. Fourteen new parking spaces have also been created to support local access.
Cllr Sean Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “As someone who is particularly familiar with the north side of the town, I’m delighted to see the progress being made on the St Nicholas Quarter Rejuvenation Scheme. This project is already beginning to breathe new life into a historic part of our town, making it safer, more accessible, and more welcoming for everyone.
“Now that Phase One has been completed, I want to sincerely thank the local community, businesses, and road users for their patience and cooperation throughout the construction. The end result will be something we can all be proud of.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: “Phase One of the St Nicholas Quarter Rejuvenation Scheme represents a major step forward in enhancing the public realm in Dundalk, supporting active travel, and improving the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
“Now that the Substantial Completion Certificate has been issued, I want to acknowledge the patience and cooperation of the local community throughout the works, which has been invaluable. I also wish to commend Glas Civil Engineering for their commitment to delivering a high-quality scheme and thank our staff for their dedication in managing and progressing this important project.”
