New works to tackle River Poddle flood risks

A NEW website has been developed to keep locals up to date on works that are designed to alleviate the risks of flooding from the River Poddle.

Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, Minister of State at the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief (OPW) launched the website for the River Poddle Flood Alleviation Scheme. The website will offer up-to-date information and news on the combined River Poddle initiative of the OPW, South Dub-lin County Council and Dublin City Council.

 The River Poddle has caused extensive flooding in the region in the past, costing life and causing damage to resources and businesses. The River Poddle Flood Alleviation Scheme aims to address this and provide added protection to property along the river.

On March 28, Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd was appointed as design consultants for the River Poddle Flood Alleviation Scheme. When completed, this scheme will provide protection to in excess of 800 properties along the River Poddle in the South Dublin County and Dublin City Council areas.

The River Poddle rises in Cookstown, Tallaght and flows north-east through Tymon Park, following a circuitous route through Templeogue, Kimmage, Harold's Cross, Tenters and Temple Bar.

The river catchment has become heavily urbanised in recent times, with the watercourse itself becoming regimented, altered and concealed to suit local habitation. The downstream reach of the Poddle, in particular, is heavily culverted, with the lower 4km flowing almost exclusively beneath the busy South Inner City streets.

This project is an adaptation action by South Dublin County Council and Dublin City Council in response to future threats posed by climate change. The scheme is estimated to cost in the region of €7 million and is funded by the Office of Public Works.

Work is currently progressing on both the preliminary design stage and with environmental studies.

The OPW, South Dublin County Council and Dublin City Council are working together on this project with construction work expected to start in late 2019 or early 2020.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Moran said: “Flood events around the country have highlighted the destruction and loss that flooding can cause to people and their property. Since my appointment as Minister last year, I, along with the staff in the OPW and local authorities, have been working to implement effective measures that will address this major issue. I am sure this scheme will provide peace of mind and a sense of security to the residents of South Dublin against any future flood events.”