The government has refused to provide additional funding for Dublin City Council’s controversial plans for a white water rafting facility in George’s Dock.

Back in 2019, Dublin City Council controversially announced plans for a €25m white water rafting centre at George’s Dock in the capital. They have now had their request for additional funding from the government rejected.

It comes after widespread backlash to the controversial plans on social media. The council initially estimated the project would cost €12million and would provide a thriving spot for attracting tourists to Dublin. Since the initial plans were drawn up the council requested €19million from the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund. However, they have now had their request rejected by Minister for Local Government Darragh O’Brien.

Speaking in response to a parliamentary question from Fine Gael TD Neale Richmond, Minister O’Brien said, “Any plans for the further advancement of this or any other proposed development for George’s Dock is a matter for Dublin City Council”.

The council confirmed the latest estimated cost for the attraction, which it insists would be a major tourist draw, has reached €25.4 million. When first proposed, the council estimated it would cost €12 million.

The news has put the white water rafting centre in serious doubt as the council has stated it cannot allocate any further funding of its own towards the project.

You can watch a video that highlights the plans for the white water rafting facility below:

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