Plan to turn river ‘treated as open sewer’ into navigable tourist route

A GROUP is aiming to turn “an open sewer” into a major beacon for marine tourism, generating millions for the economy.

Cork County Council’s Western Committee has heard proposals from River Ilen Planning Project Liaison Executive (RIPPLE) and is to urge the full county council to give it financial support for its project in Skibbereen.

RIPPLE chairman, Frank Fahey, said his group — which contains public representatives, professionals and members of the local business community — is planning a major restoration of the river from the estuary mouth up to the town.