A popular sauna based on the Magheragallon Pier has been forced to close, according to its owner.
The Seasalt Sauna has been located on the Pier since the beginning of 2025, and operated by Mairead Sweeney.
She claims that her business was served a formal notice by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to remove all of her sauna and wellness equipment from the Pier recently, after what she claims were “based on third party complaints.”
“Seasalt Sauna is no longer operating from the pier location at Kitty Archie’s at Magheragallon,” Mairead said following the news.
She says that she had not recevied any prior communication from the Department when the notice was issued to her business.
“I have been served formal notice by the Department of the Marine to remove all equipment from the pier or face legal proceedings. No one from the Department of the Marine took the time to meet with me, or speak to me directly – they only acted and issued a notice based on third party complaints,” she said.
Mairead also claims that this order has been issued in spite of the fact she had been awarded funding from Bord Iascaigh Mhara to carry out coastal tourism activities.
She says she has experienced “harassment and intimidation” from some people in relation to her business being based on the Magheragallon Pier.
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“My application for seasonal licensing to use the pier has also been rejected, which is quite ironic – as I received funding from BIM – supported by the Department of the Marine through FLAG Funding for Coastal Tourism.”
“As a female business owner, in 2026 I’m shocked to have experienced, what can only be described as harassment and intimidation from a minority who feel they have the only right to access this pier – and it honestly contradicts everything I want to promote with my wellness and Blue Economy vision.”
“Unfortunately, this little pathway of our coastline -which showcases the Wild Atlantic Way at its best, is held to ransom by a few. I did not want to leave, I was forced to go.”
She also issued a message of thanks to everyone who had supported her business during its time on the Pier.
“To each and every single person who supported my business; to everyone who stopped for a friendly chat, and to those who regularly checked in on me while I was at the pier, I am so thankful and grateful for all your support. Go raibh maith agaibh.”
“As sad as I am to have to move, and as personal as this campaign was, I’ll take this time now to consider what other options and locations are available for my business. I have really enjoyed providing this service.”
“Go raibh céad míle maith agaibh ar son an tacaíocht.”