OPW approves Inchigeelagh flood mitigation works

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has confirmed that it has approved Cork County Council’s application for funding for flood mitigation works at Inchigeelagh.

More than €91,000 has been allocated to advance targeted flood relief works in the village, incorporating the clearing of bankside trees and scrub along both banks of the river, stretching from Inchigeelagh Bridge to the footbridge — approximately 1,700m on each bank.

These measures are aimed at improving river flow, reducing blockages, and lowering the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Fine Gael TD for the area John Paul O’Shea said the approval is a welcome and timely investment for the local community.

“Flooding has been a persistent challenge for Inchigeelagh and the surrounding areas, and this funding marks another step forward in addressing those risks,” he said.

“The OPW’s support for these works will help improve the river channel, protect local homes and businesses, and give the community greater peace of mind during periods of heavy rainfall. I want to acknowledge Cork County Council for their proactive application and the OPW for recognising the importance of these targeted works. I will continue to work with both bodies to ensure that these improvements are delivered without delay.”

The minor flood mitigation works and coastal protection scheme was introduced by the OPW in 2009. Since then, 62 funding applications by Cork County Council have been supported under its auspices.

The purpose of the scheme is to provide funding to local authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas. The scheme generally applies where a solution can be readily identified and achieved in a short time frame.