Photo courtesy of Chris Suitor, Suitor Cottage Downings

Concerns have been raised over access to Trá na Rossan beach near Downings after the entrance was blocked last week.

Signs stating ‘private property’ and ‘keep out’ have been placed at the entrance to the pathway for the scenic beach on the Rosguill Peninsula.

The closure comes as Donegal County Council continues efforts to finalise a lease agreement with the landowner to allow work to begin on a new boardwalk entrance and fencing at the site.

It is understood that the landowner’s concerns centre on public liability.

Councillor Declan Meehan said the current situation is “unfortunate” as the council is still progressing the lease arrangement. He said the delay is due to the number of steps that must be completed before the lease can be finalised.

Cllr Meehan said: “The council are progressing a lease arrangement and, under public procurement guidelines, it has to go through certain processes, including independent valuation, to decide on the fair rate of the rent.

“It’s unfortunate that, in the meantime, the landowner has decided to close off the pathway. Notwithstanding concerns around public liability, it’s inconvenient for both locals and visitors to the area that won’t have access to that traditional route over the peak season, starting now from Easter onwards,” he said.

Trá na Rossan is one of Downings’ most breathtaking beaches

Councillor Meehan said he is working with the council to try and get the lease in place and ensure all the necessary steps are completed before that happens.

“What I welcome is proper engagement between the landowner and the council to get some agreement on this in the meantime,” he added.

Donegal Daily has contacted Donegal County Council on the matter.

In February 2026, when asked by Cllr Meehan about the construction of a new boardwalk entrance, the council stated: “Whilst terms have been agreed verbally with the landowner, the formalities of putting a lease in place has yet to be closed out. Funding is in place for a new boardwalk and fencing. Procurement of a contractor has also been completed, so works are ready to commence as soon as the lease is finalised. Once commenced, works should be complete in 1 – 2 weeks.”

Public access blocked at north Donegal beach was last modified: April 7th, 2026 by Staff Writer

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