A controversial project that will provide a key element of plans to prevent flooding of Cork city has been approved by An Bord Pleanála. It is estimated the proposed works at Morrison’s Island will remove 80 per cent of the threat of flooding in the city centre. Over 630 submissions were made to the board with opponents including the Save Cork City organisation calling for an oral hearing. They accused the planning authorities of “project splitting” as Cork City Council had decided to advance the Morrison’s Island element as a standalone scheme because of the significant impact it could have on reducing the risk of flooding in the city. Save Cork City claimed the threat of flooding could be better addressed by the construction of a tidal barrier downstream which together with upstream catchment management measures would allow the historic quay walls to be preserved and repaired.

Source: The Irish Times June 19, 2020 17:48 UTC