Fine Gael Deputy Ciaran Cannon has welcomed the publication of a feasibility report for Gort Lowlands Flood Relief Scheme by the OPW and Galway Co. Council.
The findings of the study indicate that the delivery of a lasting flood relief scheme for South Galway is now technically possible, is environmentally sustainable, and at a projected construction cost of €14m, it will provide an economically sound investment in the region from a cost benefit perspective.
The report is the result of the most in-depth and forensic scientific analysis ever carried out of the South Galway landscape and geology, combined with data from previous major flooding events.
It concluded that 158 properties are directly at risk of flooding in the event of a major flooding event similar to the one in early 2016. A further 221 properties are at risk of being completely cut-off due to prolonged flooding.
“The report paints a very stark picture of the real impact of flooding in South Galway from an economic and social perspective and the solutions it offers spell the end of major flooding events in South Galway,” Deputy Cannon says.
“It also acknowledges what we have been saying for years, that the flooding ‘threatens the viability of rural communities and businesses throughout the Gort Lowlands area’. That’s a direct quote from the report and it reflects the experience of these communities over and over again.
“The report also highlights the very negative effect that flooding can have on the cultural heritage of South Galway with Thoor Ballylee, Coole Park and Kiltartan Church at continued risk of flooding unless we arrive at a solution.
“In addition, farmers have repeatedly made the point in the past that flooded farm buildings and slatted sheds can pose a serious pollution risk to groundwater sourced public water supplies and can also badly damage local SACs. Again the report confirms the accuracy of these assessments”, Deputy Cannon added.
The report states the construction of the flood relief scheme will cost approximately €14m and will bring a net present value of benefits estimated at €22m to the region.
“It is such a relief to hear that the proposed scheme is both environmentally and economically feasible.” Deputy Cannon remarks.
“In particular the consultants concluded that the benefits are very substantial and include the alleviation of flood risk to hundreds of buildings, ensuring that roads remain open and the local economy is not stifled and also protecting the environmental and cultural heritage of the region. It’s simply a win-win for everyone.
A public consultation between February 26 and April 3 will allow all stakeholders to provide views on the proposed scheme with further information available at http://southgalwayfrs.ie
Deputy Cannon is urging people to participate. “This is the opportunity for the public, and in particular those who have seen so badly affected in the past, to have their say on this scheme,” he comments.
“To me it looks like an excellent proposal. It has a very reasonable cost of €14m, compared to the exorbitant cost of €48m arrived at by the last study 10 years ago. It actually protects the local environment rather than posing any risk to it.
“It builds on the experience of previous flooding events, uses science and new data in a way that it has never been used before, and also avails of local knowledge gleaned from talking to local landowners.”
Deputy Cannon concluded:”We now move on to the next phase and all going well, we will see the scheme going to construction in 2022, thus bringing to an end the years of anguish suffered by so many in South Galway. I won’t rest until I see that happen.”
