Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire Deputy, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, today (Wednesday) said the public bathing area for Dun Laoghaire, which was approved last Monday by the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council (DLRCOCO), will provide a wonderful public amenity for the people of the area and for swimmers right across the county.

“At last plans are in train, after years of procrastination, for the revival of an open air public baths in Dun Laoghaire, but at a reasonable cost. The baths will be based on the famous Badeschiff Baths in Berlin and will provide a place to relax, swim and, on the better days, to lie in the sun.

“The creation of an urban beach is nothing new, with cities across Europe having adopted the idea years ago. Dun Laoghaire’s urban beach will be modelled on the Berlin facility and is sure to be welcomed by experienced and learner swimmers of all ages right across Dublin, as well as by the people of Dun Laoghaire.

“The 40 Foot in Dun Laoghaire is an extremely popular place with swimmers, who will now be given an alternative option of bathing in a 30 meter by 10 meter steel, open-air pool which will be serviced by fresh, filtered seawater which will be heated to 26 degrees centigrade. The facility will also be environmentally friendly with all energy provided through green technologies.

“The project, which is being developed by DLRCOCO and the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, will be another significant string to Dun Laoghaire’s bow. In 2011, the East Pier recorded a staggering 1.3 million visitors, passing out Dublin Zoo as a family or tourist destination. This new amenity, which will include a beach café, a sun lounging area and changing rooms will no doubt act as an even bigger draw for the area.

“It is envisaged that the facility will be open from April to September, with the possibility of being used during the winter months down the line. It is estimated that the cost of developing the urban beach and outdoor pool will be in the region of €3 million, which would deliver an excellent, community-centred and cost-effective amenity for the people of Dun Laoghaire and beyond.”