Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 141: To ask the Minister for Finance the works that have been undertaken in improving flood prevention defences at Arklow, County Wicklow; if he will detail all outstanding works that are yet to commence; if he will give further details of a timeframe for these works to be completed; the level of ongoing contact between the Office of Public Works, Wicklow County Council and Arklow Town Council on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15343/11]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

A Feasibility Study to identify possible flood mitigation measures for Arklow Town is currently being carried out by engineering consultants, commissioned by Arklow Town Council with funding from the Office of Public Works. In addition, environmental consultants were appointed by OPW to carry out an Environmental Impact Statement, and to work in tandem with the engineering consultants in identifying environmentally acceptable measures.

In the course of carrying out the Feasibility Study, it became evident that a number of potential measures might impact on the existing Arklow Bridge. The Steering Group for the project, which currently comprises representatives of OPW, Arklow Town Council, and the Consultants, concluded that these impacts would have to be fully assessed in order to proceed. Consequently, an Assessment Report on the bridge was commissioned from specialist consultants. This report, which encompasses site investigation works, stability assessments, and other surveys, is due to be completed in July this year.

As the conclusion of the Feasibility Study will be contingent on the findings of the bridge Assessment Report, it is not possible at this point to give a timescale for the implementation of any viable mitigation measures that the study may identify.

On 31 May, Wicklow County Council submitted a number of applications for funding for small scale flood mitigation works under the OPW Minor Flood Works scheme, including an application in respect of interim works at Arklow. This application will be considered having regard to the criteria of that scheme, the overall availability of resources. and the position in relation to the Feasibility Study.