Planning watchdog clashes with Limerick council over plans to re-zone flood-prone lands for housing

The Office of the Planning Regulator said the alterations would allow “vulnerable development” on flood plains.

'Development on land at risk of flooding not only affects the people and communities who live there, but can also increase the risk of flooding elsewhere by decreasing the volume available for flood storage on floodplains,' said the OPR’s deputy regulator, Anne Marie O’Connor. Library Picture.

The State planning watchdog has clashed with members of Limerick City and County Council for making alterations to a new draft development plan to facilitate housing in high-risk flood areas.

The Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) said the proposals will place people and property “at unnecessary risk from future flood events”.