Great Response To Public Consultation From Residents On The Black Castle Heritage Site

The Wicklow Town Team held a very successful public consultation for the Black Castle project on Thurs last 21st August which saw a tremendous response from local residents and the wider community. This project is being funded through the Town & Village Renewal Scheme, a key initiative of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, in collaboration with Wicklow County Council.

The initial public consultation was designed as an opportunity for residents, local groups and community representatives to share their ideas and suggestions regarding how the public lands surrounding Black Castle could be enhanced.

The "Have Your Say" initiative, which included a photo submission campaign, a public exhibition, and workshops, provided a crucial platform for the public to share their ideas for the future of the historic site.

From 1st August to 20th August, the public was invited to submit photos of the Black Castle and its surroundings, along with memories or suggestions for its development. The submissions were then showcased in an outdoor exhibition at the Black Castle grounds and in Wicklow Library on 21st August. The event, which included walking workshops, drew a large and very engaged response. Many of those who attended completed questionnaires, submitted ideas, and contributed to a significant collection of feedback.

Feedback from the public strongly emphasised the importance of rewilding the area and protecting its unique biodiversity. Suggestions included measures to preserve rare flora and fauna, establish a dedicated litter cleaning service, and explore linking the Black Castle with a larger coastal walking trail.

Pascal Burke, Chair of the Wicklow Town Team, thanked the community for getting involved. “We were really impressed with the turnout for the consultation process. The public's engagement was incredibly strong, and the feedback received was invaluable. It’s clear that this is a cherished heritage site and green space for our community, and we are committed to ensuring that our engagement supports the voices of the people who use and love it.”

Stephen Clarke, Town Regeneration Officer for Wicklow County Council, praised the community's involvement: “The strong response from local residents and the wider community shows just how deeply valued the Black Castle site is. All partners involved are committed to ensuring the final design reflects the community’s vision while enhancing its heritage and natural environment.”

The submitted ideas and suggestions are now being analysed by the contracted consultants Studio Idir and will be organised into common themes such as Ecology, Facilities, and Heritage. These themes will also incorporate feedback from ecologists and archaeologists.

Draft design proposals and 3D visuals based on this feedback will be presented at a second public consultation, scheduled for the week commencing 15th September. The location for this further consultation and time are to be confirmed, and will be promoted strongly to encourage maximum public engagement. This event will feature a round-table discussion where the public can provide their further invaluable insights into how this treasured local Heritage site can be enhanced.

A final draft, incorporating feedback from both consultations, is expected to be presented the week of October 6th. The Wicklow Town Team will continue to provide regular updates to the community as the project progresses.