This article is from page 21 of the 2012-06-19 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 21 JPG
THE development of a maritime and angling centre at Doonbeg Pier may soon be back on the agenda as MEP Marian Harkins (IND) last week committed to finding funding for the project at European level.
More than half a million euro of funding had been allocated to the project in 2008, but this funding was never drawn down because of a difficulty in obtaining a foreshore license for the area.
The MEP, who visited the pier last week and met with representatives of the Doonbeg Fishermen’s Association, says the Doonbeg Pier is in bad need of development which could mean a major boost for the local fishing and tourism industry.
“It seems extraordinary that a project which was approved funding of € 525,000 in 2008 and is deemed strategically important by Clare County Council has not proceeded,” said the MEP.
“I will be doing whatever I can to bring a fresh focus on a project which will be of great benefit to the economy of West Clare.”
It is, as yet, unclear what “fresh focus” Ms Harkins will be able to bring to the project but some funding from the European authorities could possibly be used to kickstart the project.
Responding to Ms Harkins comment, Senior Engineer with Clare County Council, Tom Tiernan, said that the council did grant the development Part VIII planning permission more than four years ago.
“Clare County Council has never referred to Doonbeg Pier as a strategically important project, as claimed by Ms Harkin.
“However, Doonbeg Pier is zoned for maritime use in the West Clare Local Area Plan 2012-2018,” he said.
“The harbour area on Doonbeg Bay is reserved for the future development of the pier and land-based facilities to accommodate waterbased commercial activities, subject to compliance with all environmental considerations and legislation.
“Clare County Council approved development under the Part VIII at Doonbeg Pier in 2007. The proposal at the time also needed Foreshore Lease approval and this was also sought in 2007.
“Unfortunately, this was never approved and therefore the allocation referred to by Ms Harkin could not be availed of.”
During her visit to Clare last week, MEP Harkin was given an “extensive briefing” on the development.
She said that she would be investigating what sources of funds might be available for what she described as a “very justified project” utilising the uniquely safe and sheltered characteristics of Doonbeg Pier.