Contract signed for Phase 2 of Ulster Canal redevelopment
PHASE 2 of the Ulster Canal restoration was recently initiated with an official contract signing in Clones, Co Monaghan.
The contract was signed by chief executive of Waterways Ireland (WI), John McDonagh and managing director of Jons Civil Engineering Company Ltd, John Pentony, in the presence of Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD and Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD.
The project will involve the development of a new marina, two new access bridges, repairs to an existing masonry arch bridge and a sustainable water supply. It will also include about 1km of restored canal and towpath, with a looped walk and amenity area on the route of the 180-year-old Ulster Canal in Clones. An amenity area will include car parking, bus/trailer spaces, a service block and picnic area and will be connected to the town and the existing playground.
This phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2023.
The Ulster Canal Redevelopment Phase 2 is a substantial investment of €20 million in funding under the Programme for Government. It is supported by €8 million in funding from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, €6 million in funding from the Shared Island Fund and €6 million in funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development. The project will be managed by WI and implemented by Doran Consulting. The work will be undertaken by Jons Civil Engineering Company Ltd.