OPW admits it was forced to rethink flood control approach

THE Office of Public Works has admitted it was forced to take a “different approach” to flood control management in a continuing multi-phase scheme in Clonmel after costs in a Kilkenny city project spiralled out of control.

The statutory body, which will shortly assume the role as the lead State agency in flood control management, claimed the problems encountered in a €48 million scheme in Kilkenny were possibly unique.

The total cost of the scheme almost quadrupled from its initial €13 million estimate due to unexpected archaeological finds and, also, partly due to river contamination by dangerous chlorine compounds.