Minister for State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works – Kevin “Boxer” Moran visited town recently at the invitation of Cllr Alan Harney to update councillors on progress with the Flood Relief Scheme and to meet with the Ballinasloe Flood Action Group.
Speaking after the visit Cllr Harney said: “It was very useful to have Minister Moran visit and see first-hand the status of the flood relief scheme. The long talked about scheme is so needed and it is crucial that we get progress without delay in order to ensure that homes and businesses are protected.”
“The scheme is currently due to go for planning early next year with construction due to start in 2028. I and colleagues have asked the Minister if there are ways by which this can be sped up to ensure relief works can be delivered without further delay.”
“I have asked the Minister and the Office of Public Works to look at temporary measures which could be delivered before 2028 to provide some relief for homeowners and business owners in the most at risk areas.”
Cllr Harney continued: “Flood insurance also continues to be a major issue and we need to see a solution delivered to provide cover for homes and businesses in areas where flood relief works have been completed.”
Cllr Harney concluded: “I will continue to work with the Minister and the Office of Public Works and community stakeholders to ensure we keep a focus on this scheme in the time ahead.”
The Ballinasloe Flood Relief Scheme will see extensive flood prevention work undertaken around the town, including construction of new flood defence walls and culverts, the upgrade of an existing culvert, construction of lock gates across the canal, maintenance of existing defences, and work on the riverbed upstream and downstream of the town.
