Galway City Council, in collaboration with urban design consultants Allies and Morrison, has completed a two-day design charrette as part of the Salthill Village and Seafront Framework — a transformative vision for the future of Galway City’s most iconic seaside location.
The charrette, an intensive and collaborative planning workshop, brought together community representatives, Galway City Council staff, and Elected Members to co-develop ideas for improving the public realm, movement, and accessibility in Salthill. The event follows the recent launch of “Continuing the Conversation”, a report summarising the outcomes of an extensive engagement programme that began in February 2025.
The design team at Allies and Morrison has framed the conversation around three interwoven layers — the coast, the prom, and the village — each contributing to the unique character and potential of Salthill. One of the key concepts emerging from the charrette is the “beach street”: a new approach to street design – developed specifically in response to the needs in Salthill, that prioritises safe walking and cycling, while maintaining access and parking for motor vehicles. This concept directly responds to issues raised during earlier engagement and reflects a balanced, inclusive vision for the area. Participants in the workshop agreed that the principles of conservation are imperative to the management and improvement of key set pieces along the seafront, including Blackrock Tower and Ladies Beach.
Elected Members welcomed the progress:
“This exceeded expectations,” said Cllr Alan Curran. “We’re seeing real solutions emerge — not just another report, but a pathway to action.”
Cllr Eibhlín Seoighthe added, “Salthill is for all generations — a place of joy, connection, and belonging. This framework ensures it remains a destination for everyone across the city.”
“I’m delighted to see real progress on a proposal I brought forward,” said Cllr Clodagh Higgins. “I look forward to seeing the community’s ideas shape the future of Salthill.”
Council staff also contributed insights on how existing and upcoming initiatives — including active travel, the Coirib go Cósta – Galway City Flood Relief Scheme, and night-time economy projects — can be integrated into the framework to enhance the area’s vibrancy, resilience, and accessibility.
Next Steps:
This concludes the second stage of engagement in the Salthill Framework process.
The third stage, taking place in late summer and autumn, will focus on the more detailed aspects of the framework — specifically key strategies and projects. This phase will include a wider public invitation, allowing all interested parties to view and input into the further developed concepts. The aim is to build broad consensus around the main priorities and sow the seed for future implementation workstreams.
More information about the Salthill Village and Seafront Framework Plan can be accessed at www.GalwayCity.ie/SalthillFramework
