Sea swimming communities in North Clare are set to benefit from the installation of two changing shelters - one at White Strand Miltown Malbay, and another at Lahinch.
The recent November meeting of the West Clare Municipal District (MD) heard that Clare County Council has secured funding for the installation of two swim shelters at the Blue Flag beaches in North Clare.
This development will mean both bathers and water-sports enthusiasts can now use the much-needed amenities to change their clothes in comfort at both beaches.
The Council has also confirmed it will investigate the feasibility of installing solar-powered showers at Lahinch.
This announcement follows Lahinch county councillor Bill Slattery's request to the local authority to develop a changing shelter for the sea-swimming community at Lahinch.
The Fine Gael councillor had tabled a motion at the November meeting of the West Clare Municipal District (MD) to Clare County Council requesting the development of a changing shelter and installation of solar powered showers on the car park adjacent to the lifeguard station.
He told the meeting he was putting forward the motion on behalf of the Lahinch sea swimmers community, saying the facilities will provide shelter from the prevailing winds and enhance Lahinch's reputation as a modern and welcoming seaside destination.
He also highlighted there are quite a few people who go swimming now even taking a break from work to go down to the sea for a swim however, with the prevailing wind coming in from the Atlantic conditions can be cold but there is no designated public place close by where they can change their clothes.
Fianna Fáil councillor, Shane Talty supported the motion saying that swimming is an active thing, and stressing it is important for county councillors get a timeline as to when they can expect to see the shelters put in place.
In a written reply, Senior Executive Officer, West Clare MD (Ennistymon LEA), Eoin Troy thanked Councillor Slattery for his motion regarding developing amenities for the Lahinch sea swimming community.
"We are very pleased to announce that Clare County Council has secured funding through the Healthy Ireland Outdoor Swimming Infrastructure Capital Fund for the installation of two swim shelters in North Clare -- one at White Strand, Miltown Malbay, and one at Lahinch.
"In addition, we will investigate the feasibility of installing solar-powered showers in Lahinch. This will involve identifying and assessing a suitable location to ensure the infrastructure complements the existing environment and meets the needs of users," Mr Troy said.
Councillors Joe Garrihy (FG) and Joe Killeen (FF) both welcomed the response, with Councillor Killeen acknowledging the swimming community members who made contact with councillors and saying he is confident the facilities will also be used by the surfing community.
Councillor Slattery added he is "delighted" with the answer he received from the executive for Lahinch.
Mr Troy confirmed to the meeting the facilities will be concrete structures and will be located beside the existing showers, indicating that something may also be done in the future as regards solar power for the showers.
And he confirmed there will be a meeting held shortly with Clare Local Sports Sponsorship (CLSP) about when to draw down funding, prior to the development going ahead.