Historical flooding issues in a Clare village are set to finally be brought to an end this year.
The Government has confirmed that the long-awaited Springfield Flood Relief Scheme in Clonlara is “nearing completion” and will be fully-operational in the coming months.
It’s music to the ears of residents of Springfield in the south-east Clare village who’ve been plagued by flooding for decades.
Heavy and prolonged rainfall has resulted in high water levels in the River Shannon and subsequent flooding on many occasions in recent years, most notably in November 2009, December 2015, and February 2020.
This has led to a number of high-profile evacuations of residents who’ve been cut off from their dwellings by the swollen tides.
In 2016, the Office of Public Works undertook a review of the possible flood mitigation options for Springfield.
Once a solution was identified, Ayesa, formerly Byrne Looby, was appointed by Clare County Council to develop and implement the measures.
Planning was granted in 2020 and this week, in response to a parliamentary question from Bodyke Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney, the Department of Public Expenditure has confirmed that construction is nearing completion, with a groundwater report to be completed by the end of June.
Deputy Cooney says while it’s great news, it should’ve come years ago.
The scheme will provide protection to 18 properties in the townlands of Springfield, Cappavilla North, Cottage and Illaunyregan in Clonlara.
The development consists of a flood protection embankment, land raising, a penstock or sluice, a pump station and associated works.
Speaking on Clare FM’s Morning Focus, Clonlara Independent Councillor Michael Begley says he believes it will make flooding a thing of the past in the area.
You can listen to the full interview here:
