Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 October 2024
248. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform when works on improving the culvert system in Bantry will begin; the stage of the process the works are currently at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41560/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have witnessed at first hand the damage caused to properties, businesses and the community of Bantry resulting from recent flooding on the 5th October, which was caused by the surcharging of the culvert system, primarily the Mill Culvert, at New Street and Bridge Street.
The Mill Culvert is a significant piece of infrastructure in Bantry. It carries the Mill River and its tributaries such as the Alley River under the town. There is also over 130 inlets feeding into the Mill River culvert from foul water and combined networks. The culvert has been identified as a significant element contributing to flooding on Main Street, New Street and north and south of Wolfe Tone Square over the weekend of the 5th October.
The Mill Culvert is in poor structural condition and requires replacement, which is to be completed in advance of the main Flood Relief Scheme for the town. The Council is working with Uisce Éireann to increase the capacity of the existing culvert. A Part 8 planning submission for the replacement culvert is expected to be made by Cork County Council in the coming weeks with construction works on the culvert expected to start as soon as possible in 2026. The Council is working with Uisce Éireann and the OPW on a funding proposal for the Mill Culvert project.
To mitigate damage from recurring flood events in the Bantry area the OPW, since 2021, has approved €255,000 to Cork County Council to strengthen its emergency response for the installation of non-return valves, purchase of pumps, large sandbags and individual property protection.
Last week I, together with OPW officials met with Cork County Council, their consultants and Uisce Éireann to discuss progress with this culvert project and the possibility of other interim works that will bring protection to properties in the town in advance of the culvert project and the main flood relief scheme. I have arranged a further such meeting for next week.
