The scheme aims to protect 506 residential and 22 non-residential properties
A contract for a flood relief scheme aimed at protecting King’s Island and its surrounding areas from flooding has been signed by Limerick City and County Council and the Office of Public Works with Ward & Burke Construction Ltd.
“After years of planning it is great to see this project get underway for real,” said Mayor John Moran. “By investing in these robust defences, we are not only protecting homes and businesses but also saving the future of King’s Island.”
The scheme is supposed to minimise flooding risks
This flood relief scheme will aim to protect 506 residential and 22 non-residential properties from flooding. King’s Island is surrounded by both the River Shannon and the Abbey River which are both tidal rivers. This means that both coastal and fluvial flooding can occur in the area. In 2014, severe flooding at King’s Island caused extensive damage.
The project will include the installation of 2,200 metres of 2.5 metre-high earthen flood embankment with a 3-metre-wide footpath/cycleway. Glass panels will be used to construct 290 metres of flood defence walls with another 810 metres of these walls being made out of stone-clad reinforced concrete walls.
“The scheme aims to minimise the risk of flooding to the existing community and prevent re-occurrences of similar flood events that the area experienced in 2014. In addition to protecting homes, properties and the community of King’s Island, the scheme will include public realm upgrades and enhancement of the built heritage of this historic part of our great city,” said Kieran O’Donnell TD, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works.
Hope to promote tourism and prove ´piece of mind´
It is hoped that this scheme will promote tourism and business in the area along with protecting culturally and economically significant tourist attractions. The addition of new footpaths and cycle paths under the scheme hopes to encourage recreational activities and opportunities for tourism around King’s Island.
“Our ultimate goal is to provide peace of mind for the local community, ensuring that residents and businesses can feel secure knowing that robust flood defences are in place to protect their homes and livelihoods,” remarked Dr Pat Daly, Director General of Limerick City and County Council.
As part of the King’s Island Flood Relief Scheme, existing quay walls will be upgraded to better defend against floods. This will include the deconstruction of existing quay walls and parapets, lime mortar repointing, lime grouting and stonework repair.
Associated works will also take place which will include the construction of 600m access routes with a new fisherman’s access. Public lighting, landscaping, top soiling and road resurfacing are also included in the project.