Plans for a new floating pontoon along South Quay
WICKLOW County Council intend to install a floating pontoon and associated works at the South Quay in Wicklow town.
The Local Authority has concluded from a preliminary examination that no significant effects on the environment are likely as a result of the proposed development and that an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required.
The idea behind the pontoon is to increase the mooring capacity in the harbour and river area as the harbour is currently at capacity. There are also congestion issued with the harbour, particularly during storms and when ships are in port.
The intended users of the pontoon are small vessels and leisure craft including open boats. There is currently a pontoon in each of the other three harbours in the Garden county and the provision of a pontoon would aid accessibility to vessels moored along the river.
A number of recent studies have also highlighted the opportunity and potential for Wicklow town to develop its marine tourism.
The new pontoon will be supported by steel guides connected to the existing quay wall. The pontoons will be 2.4 metres wide, will be of robust construction and will be equipped with services provisions, mooring cleats, fendering, safety ladders and safety aids. The construction of the pontoons will be steel framed deck on concrete encased polystyrene floats.
A gangway will also be installed complete with hand railing, anti-slip rails and open grid decking.
Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development can be submitted to Wicklow County Council before the deadline of 12 noon on July 12. They can be made in writing to the Administrative Officer, Planning, Development and Environment, Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Wicklow Town.
Submissions may also be made by email to part8env@wicklowcoco.ie.