Could this be the future of Courtown Harbour?

Coastal erosion is a major issue facing the North Wexford coastline and while immediate remedial action is currently taking place at Courtown Harbour, major plans have been identified in a report presented to members of Gorey Municipal District Council which could see a 200-berth marina, costing €15 million, constructed and while offering protection against the elements, will change the face of Courtown forever.

The Coastal Environment Department of Wexford County Council are adamant that a marina will be built somewhere along the east coast between Dun Laoghaire and Wexford, and Courtown is the ideal location to take advantage of such an amenity that will boost tourism and enhance the popular resort.

Cllr Pip Breen said that Courtown is the ideal place for a marina. “We could protect the coastline and provide a marina at the same time,” while Council Chairman, Cllr Malcolm Byrne stated that “the challenge of coastal erosion is huge.”

Two options identified for financing the project include the construction costs being underwritten by Wexford County Council or the development of a Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme, with the latter being the most likely choice.

The report concluded that a 200-berth marina could be constructed at Courtown without compromising the other attractions of the town.

It is also believed that the marina would be most beneficial in upgrading the tourist potential of North Wexford.

Full story this week in THE GOREY ECHO.