#GalwayBay - More than 500 submissions were lodged during last year’s public consultation on proposals to upgrade the marine energy test site in Galway Bay off Spiddal.
And according to the Connacht Tribune, many voiced serious concerns over the project’s potential impact on Galway Bay.
As previously reported on Afloat.ie, the Marine Institute had applied to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government for a foreshore lease for the site where prototype marine and renewable energy technology would be tested at reduced scale.
The consultation period, which closed on 17 June last, was accompanied by a public information evening on the project and its ambitions.
However, the Connacht Tribune reports that the response from local businesses and communities has been largely negative.
One fisherman expressed his fear that the lease area could be expanded into prawn grounds already reduced by the original lease for the site a decade ago.
Other concerns include the 35-year period of the lease, the scope and veracity of information provided, and the lack of an Environmental Impact Statement, as well as the impact on tourism on the Wild Atlantic Way in South Connemara.
The Connacht Tribune has more on the story HERE.