Wall collapse attributed to erosion

A town clerk has said he was “greatly relieved” that nobody had been hurt after a 15ft section of wall collapsed 40 feet onto the rocks at Youghal’s Lighthouse Hill yesterday afternoon.

The incident happened close to Moll Goggin’s corner at about 2pm. The 4ft high wall borders a narrow footpath. The collapse is attributable to coastal erosion and is the third such occurrence in the vicinity in recent times. Two extended viewing areas have been fenced off for over three years amidst fears of similar subsidence beneath the structures.

Town engineer Paul Murray said Cork County Council commissioned an engineer’s report on the area three years ago. In Feb 2009, when the second viewing area was closed, the council suggested “surface water” following heavy rain and prolonged frost had caused deterioration. That synopsis may now need to be reviewed.