Repairing storm-damaged Kilkee wall and road to cost millions

The cost of repairing a historic seawall and adjoining road that has already sunk up to six feet in places could run into millions of euro and will not be completed even before the end of the summer.

The news comes as Clare County Council confirmed it has received none of the money it has requested from central government to cover the estimated cost of damage caused in the January and February storms.

The road at Strand Line in Kilkee has collapsed several feet in one area, while a 20ft-high seawall that dates back to the 19th century has also been damaged and remains at risk of collapsing on the beach.

Massive concrete kentledge blocks have been placed on the beach at the base of the wall, but it’s feared these will not prevent the structure from collapsing.

“Ground investigation works are ongoing to determine the exact nature of works to be carried out and the cost of same. These works are scheduled to be completed by the end of April,” a council spokesman said.

The council said it is believed removing the wall and rebuilding it will cost millions. The council requested €36.8m, of which just €16m was earmarked. The council has not yet received any of this funding.

Kilkee Civic Trust has written to the county manager, calling for a state of emergency to be declared and the works to be commenced. Raising safety concerns it said: “These dangers will be escalated by the approaching summer holiday season, and the influx of visitors.

“It is profoundly worrying to contemplate the commencement of works while the tourist season is at its height.”