A new aquarium will be opening in the former Sea Life building in Bray, County Wicklow, news which is sure to leave local residents awash with excitement, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore, who’s the party’s marine spokesperson and represents the Wicklow constituency, said:
“I’m delighted to see an aquarium return to Bray Town – Kevin, Shane, and the Marine Life Aquarium Bray team are very experienced not just in running aquariums but also in marine conservation, and I’m sure they will prove an excellent resource for the local community.
“The closure of Sea Life two years ago was a significant blow to Bray, impacting not only tourism but also the vibrancy of the promenade – I myself also have a background in marine biology and was therefore really disappointed by the 2023 closure.
“I reached out to multiple other aquariums at the time to see if they would take over this site – needless to say, I am delighted to see that one of those groups I spoke to then has decided to take up operations in the building.
“I know that the new operators are keen for Marine Life Aquarium Bray to be an educational facility, which will be a fabulous fit to the East Coast, given our rich history of maritime activity.
“From my marine biology background, I know that sites like this are so important for budding marine biologists – I am really looking forward to working with the new operators to make this venture as successful as possible.
“Ever since Sea Life closed its doors, I’ve been holding out hope that an alternative provider would be found to reinstate this vital resource – Marine Life Aquarium Bray promises to be a significant addition to the local area, serving as an educational space for our youth and a destination for tourism.”
May 2nd, 2025