The site and car park adjacent to the Guillamene, Tramore has re-opened following a controversial closure today

As reported by WLR earlier, the car park was closed to the public, with notices displayed at the entrance warning that unauthorised entry is prohibited.

One of the notices stated that anyone entering the site would be accessing a farm, while also advising that pedestrians may continue to use the land to access the Guillamene swimming area.

Waterford City and County Council staff were on site this afternoon to remove a barrier which had been erected.

In a statement, the local authority said: “Waterford City and County Council is aware that vehicular access to the Guillamene car park has been restricted. The Council is engaging with the landowner with a view to seeking a resolution to the issue.”

A statement issued by Coghlan Kelly Solicitors on behalf of the owners earlier today said: “It is with utmost regret that the owners of the land adjacent to the Guillamene swimming area in Tramore have been forced to restrict vehicle access to the site and the carpark located on it. This is not the course of action the owners wanted to take. They have engaged for a number of years unsuccessfully with Waterford City and County Council regarding its continued use and issues regarding public liability and land rights.

The owners have been clear in their wish to negotiate an arrangement with Waterford City and County Council which would have guaranteed the long-term future of the carpark. Unfortunately, due to a lack of meaningful engagement, the owners are regretfully left with no choice but to revoke permission for the lands use as a public carpark and amenity due to severe financial and legal liabilities associated with unmanaged public access.

On the 6th July 2026, the owners notified Waterford City and County Council that the permission to use the carpark would cease on the 31st October 2026 but they have ignored the request to clear the site.

The owners have been forced to construct a barrier to prevent trespass on to the carpark area but wish to emphasise that pedestrian access to the Guillamene swimming area will continue.

The owners anticipate that this may result in legal action and are not in a position to comment any further at this stage but remain open to discussion to resolve the issues quickly and fairly.”