Concerns raised over coastal erosion in Waterford as areas ‘under pressure’ identified
The issue, which could affect Tramore and Dungarvan, was raised by Cllr Catherine Burke at a recent meeting of Waterford City and County Council
Concerns have been raised over coastal erosion in County Waterford as areas “under pressure” are identified.
The issue was raised by Sinn Féin councillor Catherine Burke at the October plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council.
Cllr Burke said: “I just have a question around coastal erosion and our coast in Waterford city and county.
“How are we monitoring coastal erosion across the county, including the coastal areas identified as being most at risk by erosion.
“Are there any assessments or coastal protection plans that are currently underway?
“Are there any proposed or completed mitigation works and we have sought funding or received funding for these works?”
In response, Director of Services Gabriel Hynes outlined the work that been undertaken both locally and nationally.
Mr Hynes said: “In relation to coastal erosion, I think nationally, a lot of work has been done in relation to monitoring the coastline around the country in relation to areas that are under pressure.
“In relation to ourselves locally, we’ve undertaken plans in the Ardmore area in relation to coastal assessment.
“We’re currently planning for the Tramore area at the moment, assessing the pressure that that area is under. We’ll be carrying out a similar plan in relation to Dungarvan.”
He highlighted the funding that Waterford has received for the upkeep of its piers and sea walls in recent years, as well as other work that has been undertaken.
“Just in relation to funding, over the last number of years, we’ve had significant funding of our piers and sea walls courtesy of the Department of the Marine.
“All those structures have been remediated and improved.
“Outside of that, we have done some works out in Boatstrand. We did significant work there in relation to coastal collapse.”
Mr Hynes concluded by saying that the council will continue to monitor the issue of coastal erosion and act where necessary.
“We are monitoring the Copper Coast at particular locations and we will intervene where necessary.
“We have significant expenditure between our own district and we’re continuously engaging with the OPW in relation to other areas.”
“We always have plans and we always will have some investment and assessment,” he added.