'It's a joke': Three major West Cork projects put on hold to protect freshwater pearl mussel

The Ardcahan bridge, north of Dunmanway, is flooded several times a year, but preventative works are restricted because it is in a special area of conservation. Picture: Richard Mills

Three major infrastructure projects in West Cork have been put on hold, because of risk to the endangered freshwater pearl mussel. The projects include flood-relief works on the main road to Cork City and the upgrade of a sewage-treatment plant.

An Bord Pleanála has refused Cork County Council permission to undertake road-safety and realignment works on the busy R585 (Bantry line) at Dromdeegy, north of Dunmanway.