Plans Being Made For New Toilets And Changing Facilities at Raven Nature Reserve

Plans for new toilets, showers and changing facilities at the Raven Nature Reserve near Curracloe Beach have been drawn up, with additional car parking and improved wheelchair accessibility also being considered.

Fine Gael councillor Robbie Staples has been calling for toilet facilities at the popular seaside attraction since his election in the summer of 2024.

Speaking to South East Radio News this afternoon, Cllr Staples said the initial design concept is due to be presented to councillors at the Wexford Borough District meeting tomorrow - October 22nd.

“Plans have been drawn up to bring forward changing facilities, toilet facilities and potentially to also look at extending out additional car spacing. We’ll make it more wheelchair accessible as well,” he said.

The proposals also include a potential upgrade to the picnic area on the route towards the beach.

Cllr Staples said the project will need to progress through planning and the relevant environmental screening processes before funding can be sought.

While no cost estimate has been provided, he acknowledged that the overall investment is likely to be substantial.

“I would be hopeful that we can get planning permission and the screenings all completed this side of the year,” he said.

Although no formal timeline has been confirmed, Cllr Staples said he would like to see work begin early next year, with the facilities ready by summer 2028 at the latest.

Wexford County Council Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe previously confirmed that the county architect had prepared plans for the facilities, but said funding had yet to be secured.

Once planning approval is in place, the council will be able to apply for grants to help deliver the project.