current

Thumbs-up to tackle flash floods and raw sewage

A Special Report


A PLAN to reduce the risk of raw sewage discharge into the Garavogue River in the centre of Sligo town got the thumbs-up in the past seven days.

Flash flooding at Fatima Avenue, Riverside, Crozon Promenade and Vernon Street will also be alleviated in the wider work.

Sligo County Council plans the works as part of the Pearse Road Surface Water Sewer Works.

Work on surface water separation at Pearse Road, Teeling Street and Thomas Street would see less raw sewage in the Garavogue, the Council believes.


Frequently Overflows


Pleanala Inspector Deirdre MacGabhann noted: "As a result of the current combined collection system, raw sewage frequently overflows from combined storm overflows, pumping stations and treatment works into the River Garavogue during and after periods of heavy rain."

However the Council had to refer its plans for a storm water outfall and petrol interceptor at John F Kennedy Parade to An Bord Pleanala.

Pleanala had to adjudge, amongst other things the likely impact on the environment and habitats and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) which would be caused by the work.

In total, over 1,00 metres of a new water sewer would run from Mail Coach Road to John F Kennedy Parade. Only the section at Kennedy Parade required approval from An Bord Pleanala.

The Pleanala Inspector recommended approval with conditions attached. These were published online on Wednesday night.

LINK:    http://www.pleanala.ie/casenum/JP0007.htm