Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 December 2018
185. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the environmental impact statement has been completed for the flood defence scheme in Arklow, County Wicklow; if surveying has been completed in respect of the wastewater treatment plant; if all reports have been completed; if planning permission has been sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53799/18]
View answerWicklow County Council is the lead authority for advancing the design of a flood relief scheme for Arklow with funding provided by the Office of Public Works. Consultants have been commissioned to undertake engineering and environmental studies to assess and develop a viable, cost effective and sustainable flood relief scheme for the Avoca River.
An Environmental Impact Assessment Report is currently being prepared and it is proposed to submit proposals for the Scheme to An Bord Pleanála in the second half of 2019 for approval under section 226 of the Planning and Development Acts. The application is dependent on the outcomes of surveys and studies, which are planned or underway, including an assessment of the potential impacts of the flood scheme on Arklow Marsh and a study of the hydro geomorphology of the Avoca River.
The Office of Public Works is not responsible for drainage or wastewater matters and these do not form any part of the proposed flood relief scheme..
