A draft blueprint for the future of Salthill is due for publication before the end of March, a meeting of City West area councillors heard this week.

The Salthill Village and Seafront Framework Plan, which has been in development since last year, would then move to the ‘delivery phase’, councillors were told.

The Council’s Catherine McAndrew said extensive engagement had been carried out last year in the development of the plan which would cover several topics including transport and public spaces.

“Our aim is to have a draft framework plan completed this quarter.

“This is a delivery-focused document and we are looking at it as a long-term plan,” she said.

Several events were held in Salthill through 2025 garnering public opinion, drawing in the opinions of residents, businesses, leisure groups and schools.

Ther first stage of engagement took place last February and March, seeking to find out ‘what people love about Salthill’ and what improvements could be made to the area.

The second found of informal engagement took place last June which included a ‘design charette’ – a collaborative meeting featuring public drop-in opportunities.

The framework plan has been mooted as a means to preserving the landmark set-pieces of Salthill, such as the Blackrock Diving tower, while making it more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.

Ideas previously mooted included the replacement of the current traffic roundabout in the heart of the resort which is regarded as being ‘divisive’ in terms of pedestrian access to Salthill Village from the Prom.

The development of a ‘beach street’, running alongside the Prom walkway, will also be part of the framework plan, which ‘will prioritise safe walking and cycling while maintaining access and parking for motor vehicles.

Pictured: Way of the future? A City Council image showing cycle lanes on the Prom … with parking still available.