The Bantry inner harbour development scheme has re-generated interest in the West Cork town as a marine leisure and sailing centre. Bantry Bay Port Company, operated by Cork Port, has a sheltered marina with 40 berths there.
But the town centre itself, on the edge of the bay, has suffered a lot from flooding during the past few years.
“It has been severely and repeatedly impacted,” according to Cork County Council which has announced a ‘Public Participation Day’ next week to discuss the flood relief scheme it is planning for the town.
Several factors have caused the problems, including tidal issues, according to Cork County Council CEO, Tim Lucey. “The Bantry Flood Relief Scheme involves the analysis of several very complex factors, including tidal, fluvial and pluvial flood mechanisms. Constraints include environmental factors, cultural and heritage elements, and impacts on existing infrastructure.”
The ‘Public Participation Day’ will be held in the Council offices in the town centre - Áras Beanntraí - at Wolfe Tone Square next Wednesday, May 18, between 4 and 8 p.m.
This is to assess public opinion about the scheme, the first stage of which involves a detailed study of flooding mechanisms in Bantry and its environs, involving data collection, site investigation, hydraulic and hydrological assessment, and public consultation. Presentations will be given by the project team to identify a preferred option.
“It is an opportunity for the public and business people to share their experience of flooding in Bantry, submit comments and make their views known,” said County Cork Mayor Gillian Coughlan. “The scheme will provide critical infrastructure to protect Bantry against significant flood events in the future. Different options will be assessed and the most appropriate solutions brought to planning stage.”
