This article is from page 16 of the 2013-05-07 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 16 JPG
THE scope of any plans to develop or enhance the recreational and leisure potential of Ballyalla Lake would be limited by the legal designation of the area, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has warned.
Seamus Hassett, NPWS District Conservation Officer, told a public meeting that consent is required in order for certain activity to take place on the lake.
He said the recently established Ballyalla Working Group would have to bear in mind the legal designation of the site.
The area is subject to three levels of protection, the meeting heard.
Ballyalla is a wildlife sanctuary, a special area of conservation and a special protection area.
The area is a habitat for around 2,000 to 3,000 birds.
David Lyons of the NPWS told the meeting that there has been a decrease in the numbers of some birds at the lake.
Mr Hassett said the lake’s legal designations does not prohibit activity on the lake. However he said any proposals to increase activity would have to go through a “screening” process.
John Murphy of Birdwatch Ireland said there are many issues around the lake that are disrupting the bird population.
He described any proposal to select Ballyalla, as Ennis’ flagship lakeside amenity as “crazy”.
He suggested that Lough Girroga would be a more suitable location for water-based activities.
Mr Murphy warned against development around Ballyalla that would upset the “distinct wildlife of the area”.
Clare Fine Gael TD, Deputy Joe Carey told the meeting that Ballyalla Lake needs to be utlished more by people in Ennis.
He added, “Obviously there are sensibilities around development. But there is no reason why it can’t be developed in a sensitive way.”
Cllr Tony Mulqueen (FG) said he believes that the lake has been “overused” in recent years. He said Ballyalla should be preserved and any plans for water sport activities confined to waterways between Clarecastle and Ennis.