Progress being made in developing a marina in Westport

IN another significant step towards the development of a marina for Westport, Gavin and Doherty Geosolutions (GDG) have completed their review of the environmental and commercial implications of a marina at Westport Quay, updating numerous previous reports.

The result of the review is a clear, agreed, and cohesive vision for Westport harbour. GDG are proven experts at finding innovative engineering solutions to support some of the most challenging offshore and infrastructure projects around the world. This report is now receiving its final edits in advance of formal review and approval by Mayo County Council and elected representatives.

As expected, regulatory and environmental challenges were identified which will require further investigation to ensure all potential issues are addressed. This will involve ongoing engagement with Mayo County Council, local, and national representatives, Westport Tourism Organisation, and other stakeholders, that the Marina Working Group have already been working with since the public meetings early last year.

Minister Jack Chambers, who was in Westport last week for the ground-breaking of the new Coast Guard station, spoke very encouragingly about the potential and need for a marina in Westport. It is expected that Mayo County Council will include the marina as part of the Westport Harbour Area Master Plan and access department funding to progress through the critical environmental and regulatory process. Once this process is underway, the project will be shovel ready and close to being completed.

A marina in Westport will be a significant addition to Westport’s and Mayo’s tourism offering, bringing additional vibrancy to the Quay area. It will also provide the foundation for numerous jobs. It is hoped this will help leverage the emerging blue economy sectors and support the more traditional marine activities such as inshore fishing, aquaculture, and leisure in terms of investment and infrastructure to build a vibrant, sustainable coastal community.