Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has submitted a planning application for the proposed removal of Annacotty Weir in Co Limerick.
The man-made weir is located on the River Mulkear near Annacotty village.
IFI’s proposal would remove the existing weir and reinstate a more natural river channel. The environmental works would reconnect the river, helping migratory fish species such as wild Atlantic salmon and sea lamprey to pass through.
The planning application for the removal of Annacotty Weir has been lodged with Limerick City and County Council for consideration.
Hazel King, head of IFI’s Barrier Mitigation Division said: “The removal of Annacotty Weir is an opportunity to restore the natural function of the River Mulkear.
“By removing this redundant in-stream structure, this project will improve the passage of fish and enhance the habitat for other aquatic species.
“This positive intervention will support the long-term ecological health of the Mulkear, an important tributary of the River Shannon.
“With a successful grant of planning permission, IFI would anticipate construction to commence in summer 2027.”
Photomontage image of River Mulkear after proposed works to remove Annacotty Weir | Credit: IFI
The proposed development would involve the complete removal of the 34m-long Annacotty Weir, and the restoration of an approximately 50m-long stretch of the river using natural stone and boulders.
Following construction works, reinstatement of the native riverside habitat would be undertaken.
The proposed works form part of IFI’s ongoing programme to address barriers to fish migration and to restore the ecological connectivity of Ireland’s rivers through its National Barrier Mitigation programme, funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
