National awards for Clonakilty initiatives

A unique cycling project along with a revolutionary sewerage treatment plant and a community-minded business have gained national awards for a West Cork town.

The Clonakilty Cycle Scheme landed a double win in the “best community-based initiative” and “outstanding excellence” categories at the annual Community and Council awards in Dublin.

The event was hosted by LAMA (Local Authorities Members’ Association) which represents county and city councillors nationwide.

The first rural-based cycle scheme of its type in the country allows locals and visitors access bicycles in a convenient and cheap manner.

Meanwhile, the town’s waste water treatment plant took first place in its category for “most significant contribution to water quality”.

Originally constructed in 1987 to serve a population of 5,333, treatment was provided by way of conventional aeration but, in recent years, the plant became grossly overloaded.

A facility with significantly higher capacity was required and a revolutionary treatment technology called Nereda was identified as the solution to meet the challenges posed. The new plant became operational last May.

Fernhill House Hotel & Gardens, meanwhile, took top prize in the “best business working with the community” category.

The O’Neill family-run business was acknowledged for backing community organisations and worthy causes, such as its annual breast cancer walk.

Chairman of Cork County Council’s Western Division, Independent councillor Declan Hurley, said the local authority had forwarded seven nominees. He was delighted four from one town had won national awards.