This article is from page 13 of the 2011-10-11 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 13 JPG
DETAILS of proposed new flood defences for housing estates near the Watery Road in Ennis have been outlined in a report by Ennis Town Council.
The proposed development comprises of an embankment along the eastern side of the River Fergus between the southwestern edge of Willow Park housing estate and the western perimeter of Westbourne. The embankment is to be constructed on the existing flood plain, which is located between the river and the Watery Road.
The works also comprise a pumping station and an area of ground that will be excavated to form a retention pond for temporary floodwaters.
The Willow Park residents association (2) and David Casey made submissions on the proposed development.
The report states, “David Casey (12/8/11) – raises concerns that the proposed development will result in flood waters been directed to Cusack Road / Victoria Court side of the river and that as such the said development should be refused; Willow Park residents association (9/9/11) – wishes to object to the proposed development on the grounds that it will leave Willow Park vulnerable to increased water levels during flood events.”
The planning report, prepared by Executive Planner, Andrew Hersey, responded to concerns raised by residents of Willow Park and Elm Park that the development will result in an increased chance of flooding to the estates. Referring to reports compiled by area engineers, Mr Hersey writes, “It is stated in these reports that the floor levels of dwellings in Willow Park exceed that of the proposed embankment.”
The report continues, “In this respect the proposed development will not result in an increased chance that this estate will flood during severe weather events. With respect of Elm Park, I note the report from the area engineer on file which states that flooding occurred to Elm Park as a consequence of localised flooding from the road which resulted as a consequence of a blocked storm drain specifically during the flooding event of November 2009 and not as a result of flooding from the river. Works will be carried out on said drain so that this will not happen in the future and that the council are seeking funding with regard to the same.”
The report states that the proposed embankment will be on par with the level of dwellings in Elm Park. “In this case the embankment would have to significantly breach during severe weather conditions so as to cause flooding.”
Mr Hersey recommended that the development proceed having regard to a number of conditions.