The estimated cost for new flood defences in Galway has risen to €80 million, accompanied by a further extension of the project’s completion timeframe. This 60% increase in costs is attributed to the overall scale of the required measures and the impact of inflation within the construction sector.
Project Timeline and Infrastructure
Construction operate on the Corrib go Cósta/Galway Flood Relief scheme is now envisaged to continue until mid 2033. Current forecasts suggest a formal planning application may be submitted in late 2028, with construction likely to begin in mid 2030.
The proposed infrastructure would include 6.5 kilometres of flood defence walls and 1.4 kilometres of earth embankments and ground raising measures. The design also incorporates 50 flood gates and eight surface water pumping stations.
Urban Integration and Impact
Planners state the defences will be environmentally sustainable and technically viable, designed to integrate into the city’s heritage and character. To preserve existing vistas, walls will generally be set back from the coastline in most instances.
The flood defence walls would generally stand 1.1 metres high, with “demountable” barriers added in specific locations for use during flood events. These would primarily run from Blackrock in Salthill, through the city centre, and toward Galway Harbour.
Additional protections are planned for the Eglington Canal, Terryland, and areas west of Salthill. Specific measures include flood defence walls along the Salthill Promenade, Claddagh Quay, and the Fish Market/Spanish Arch area.
Specific Local Changes
On Claddagh Quay, the installation of a 1.1 metre wall in the middle of the existing road would necessitate a one-way system for southbound traffic. Meanwhile, the Fish Market would be raised by just over half a metre, bordered by a wall of similar height.
Ground raising is also planned for the Long Walk, where the project would combine a flood defence wall with demountable defences.
Next Steps for the Scheme
The “emerging preferred scheme” is currently being outlined at a series of city meetings. Galway City Council, the Office of Public Works, and consultants from the Arup engineering firm will review public submissions before a final preferred design is selected.
Once completed, planners say these measures would prevent over 800 homes and 200 businesses from being flooded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the cost of the Galway flood defences increased?
The cost has increased by 60% to €80 million due to the scale of the measures involved and the impact of inflation in the construction sector.
What specific infrastructure will be built?
The plan includes 6.5 kilometres of flood defence walls, 1.4 kilometres of earth embankments and ground raising, 50 flood gates, and eight surface water pumping stations.
When is the project expected to be finished?
It’s now envisaged that construction work on the Corrib go Cósta/Galway Flood Relief scheme would not be completed until mid 2033.
How do you feel about the balance between essential flood protection and the resulting changes to city traffic and layout?
