Public access to a well-known Co Wicklow beach has been secured after Wicklow County Council announced it has purchased a site overlooking the beach.
The land near Magheramore Beach close to Brittas Bay had been bought at auction by Paddy McKillen Jr in 2021, outbidding the local authority for the site.
However, his company failed to secure planning permission for a boutique-style holiday resort and leisure centre on the site.
In March, the clifftop site was sold again at auction to a Chinese investor for over its guide price of €550,000 with Wicklow County Council once again failing to secure the sale.
There were concerns about local access to the beach because the sale involved a gated entrance from the main road to the lands surrounding Magheramore Beach.
It has featured in a number of TV and film productions including Vikings and Camelot, the EastEnders spin-off series Redwater, and Amy Huberman's Finding Joy.
However, Wicklow County Council has announced it has now purchased the 21-acre site.
"This land, which offers panoramic views of the beach and the Irish Sea, was previously owned by the Colomban order of sisters before being sold multiple times," the council said in a statement.
It added: "Long celebrated for its natural beauty, clear waters and unspoiled surroundings, Magheramore Beach has become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike."
"Wicklow County Council had previously attempted to secure public ownership of the land for beach access. They were unsuccessful bidders at the initial auction in 2021 and again at the auction held in March 2025.
"However, after the successful bidder decided not to proceed with the sale, the council was given the opportunity to intervene and complete the purchase of this important coastal amenity.
"The acquisition of the land at Magheramore will guarantee continued access to the beloved beach.
"Furthermore, it is a step towards the County Development Plan objectives to protect the Special Area of Conservation and the National Heritage Area."
Wicklow Municipal District Cathaoirleach Councillor Gail Dunne described the purchase as fantastic news.
"The Council has secured continued access to an amenity that will be enjoyed by young people and families for generations to come," she said.
Director of Finance for Wicklow County Council and Wicklow District Manager Brian Gleeson described the bidding process as "long and repeated".
"Following a long and repeated bidding process, the Council was afforded the opportunity to purchase the land and we immediately acted on this to ensure a swift and efficient transfer of ownership.
"I also wish to acknowledge the strong community support that helped highlight the importance of preserving Magheramore Beach for public use."
