Big step forward for Limerick flood relief programme
Floods in 2014 devastated King's Island community
PLANS to construct barriers to help stop the River Shannon from bursting its banks have taken a major step forward this Monday.
That's after it was confirmed approval has been given to council to put in place a contractor to advance the scheme which will provide barriers across the city and in particular, St Mary's Park, which was devastated by flash floods more than a decade ago.
Local TD Kieran O'Donnell, the Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, announced the news, which will allow work to kick off this autumn and take two years to complete.
He said the scheme will bring protection from significant flooding to 528 homes and businesses by the end of 2026.
The scheme design for King’s Island consists of the construction of new earthen flood embankments, new walls plus repairs and upgrades to existing quay walls.
On top of this, there will be, pavement improvements and public realm works, drainage and utility works, conservation mitigation, archaeological mitigation and ecological mitigation.
Mr O'Donnell said: "This is a significant investment by government in Limerick city and in addition to protecting homes, properties and the community of King’s Island, the scheme will include significant public realm upgrades and enhancement of the built heritage of this historic part of our great city."