Cork City Council is facing a hefty legal bill after the High Court granted an order quashing the planning for the controversial Morrison’s Island public realm and flood defence project.

Cork City has asked for expert advice on flood protection and insurance issues in a bid to unlock the multi-billion euro development potential of one of Ireland’s largest brownfield sites which is below high-tide level.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan has said that the attitude of insurance companies to flood protection measures is "bordering on the ridiculous".

Dublin City Councillors have passed a motion which says a new sea wall in Clontarf should be no higher than necessary to protect from flooding.