WORKS T0 SHORE UP 1,880 PREMISES
A series of new flood risk management works could help to protect up to 1,880 properties in the Dundalk area, the July meeting of Louth County Council heard yesterday (Monday).
An update on the CFRAM (Catchment Flood Risk and Management) report was presented to councillors, outlining the area where works are being proposed.
In Louth the areas are Carlingford/Greenore, Dundalk and Blackrock South, Drogheda, Ardee and Baltray.
Director of Service, Catherine Duff outlined that an estimated €40 million will be spent on extensive works in the Dundalk and Blackrock area, primarily on 17 to 20 kilometres of hard defences.
A further €23 million would be needed for flood embankments, walls and two pumping stations in the Carlingford and Greenore area.
County Manager, Joan Martin highlighted the large number of properties which would be protected as a result in Dundalk.
‘1,880 properties is a huge swathe of the town, about a third of the total properties. This is crucially important,’ said the manager.
Cllr. Maria Doyle said that she was ‘delighted the see these plans presented here today. But what is important now is how we move forward with plans for this area.’
She highlighted Mounthamilton on the Ardee Road, adding ‘For people living there, including my own parents, it is absolutely urgent.’ She added that consultation with local people was very important.
Cllr Peter Savage aired his concerns that the necessary funding would be made available, adding ‘ The OPW has no reputation for moving speedily. Are we just living in hope that the money will come?’
Ms. Duff said the council are at an ‘early engagement stage’ with the OPW and are awaiting further update.
The County Manager said that she had indicated the urgency to the OPW, particularly for Dundalk and Drogheda, which were among the most critical.
Cllr. Mark Dearey called for the council to future proof its policies, against the ‘ global emergency’ that is climate change.