Bantry flood relief scheme will be 'open heart surgery' in town centre

Temporary flood protection measures at Bantry town, Co Cork, in 2021. Large sandbags in position beside Bantry Town Square to protect against flooding from the sea. Pic: Larry Cummins

Cork County Council bosses have promised to do everything in their power to help businesses in a West Cork town likely to be impacted by the first phase of a multi-million euro flood defence project.

The Bantry Flood Relief Scheme, which aims to protect 200 vulnerable properties, is not expected to be complete until 2031. 

Fine Gael councillor Caroline Cronin asked the local authority to investigate and implement all available measures to support affected businesses throughout the construction period.

She said this should include financial assistance schemes, business support initiatives, promotional campaigns, rate relief measures where permissible, enhanced signage and access arrangements, and economic development supports aimed at sustaining commercial activity in Bantry town during the works.

The first stage of the project, which will create a major culvert in the town centre, is to get underway next year.

“We must recognise that the planned culvert works will bring huge disruption to the heart of Bantry town. There’ll be reduced access, traffic diversions and huge construction which will affect local businesses. Many of these businesses are already under serious financial pressure,” Ms Cronin said.

“Yes, we must save Bantry from future flooding, but we also must protect the businesses that are the backbone of our local economy. By planning now, we can help ensure that Bantry will be safer and stronger and have a thriving town centre by the end of the project,” she added.

Independent Ireland councillor Danny Collins, who owns a pub there, said the work would be “like open heart surgery in the middle of the town". 

He said a rates waiver would be vital for impacted businesses.

The council said it acknowledges the importance of maintaining the economic vitality of the town during the delivery of the project and recognises the concerns of local businesses.

All relevant supports and mechanisms available through the council, the Local Enterprise Office, Government departments and State agencies will be explored and communicated to affected businesses, it said.

Officials said they will engage with businesses, traders, representative groups and other stakeholders to identify and mitigate potential impacts on commercial activity.

The statement added: ‘As part of the detailed planning and construction preparation process, the council will seek to ensure traffic management arrangements, pedestrian access, signage and communications are designed to minimise disruption, while maintaining safe access to businesses wherever practicable.’ 

Council chief executive Moira Murrell admitted it is a huge project.

However, she promised to look at several ways to support businesses, and her officials will engage on a one-to-one basis with people who have particular difficulties.