Dublin news is focusing on nature this October as Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council invites residents to help shape its Biodiversity Action Plan for 2027–2032. The public consultation gives communities an opportunity to comment on how habitats, wildlife and ecosystems should be protected across the county.
The consultation follows Ireland’s declaration of a biodiversity crisis in 2019 and comes as the European Union’s Nature Restoration Law, adopted in 2024, sets new goals for restoring nature. As an urban county with coastal, woodland, parkland and other valuable habitats, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown has a significant role to play in local conservation.
Have your say on DLR’s biodiversity strategy
The council says the new plan will build on existing work by residents, community groups, organisations and partner agencies. The decline of pollinators, including bees, is one of the visible challenges affecting the county, while local projects continue to support wildlife and improve natural spaces.
Residents can review the following consultation material:
- A discussion document about biodiversity in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown
- The previous DLR Biodiversity Action Plan 2021–2025
- An online survey for public submissions
Councillor Barry Saul, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, encouraged people to contribute local knowledge and ideas so the final plan can reflect the county’s natural heritage.
Community engagement dates
DLR will host several public sessions during the consultation period:
- 9 October, 10am–1pm: Dundrum Library
- 13 October, 11am–2pm: Royal Marine Hotel, Dún Laoghaire
- 15 October, 6pm–8.30pm: The Graduate, Killiney Shopping Centre
- 19 October, 7.30pm–8.30pm: Online webinar with the council’s Biodiversity Officer
Written submissions can also be placed in collection boxes at the in-person events. The online webinar will outline achievements from the previous plan and introduce the proposed approach for 2027–2032.
Submission deadline and further information
The consultation remains open until midnight on 2 November 2026. Submissions will be treated confidentially and used for planning and policy purposes. Any published feedback will be presented without identifying individuals or organisations.
For updates and access to the consultation survey, residents should visit the DLR County Council website. Enquiries can be made by calling 01 205 4700 or emailing info@dlrcoco.ie.
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Why local biodiversity planning matters
Biodiversity action plans help translate national and European environmental priorities into practical local measures. They can support pollinators, strengthen habitats and encourage residents to take part in protecting green and coastal spaces.
For people living in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, the consultation is a direct opportunity to influence future conservation priorities. Sharing observations about wildlife, habitats and community needs can help the council develop a plan grounded in local experience.
Key takeaway: residents have until 2 November 2026 to contribute to DLR’s Biodiversity Action Plan 2027–2032 and help guide the future protection of nature across the county.
