Work begins on Whitechurch Stream Flood Alleviation scheme

Construction has begun on the Whitechurch Stream Flood Alleviation Scheme in south Dublin.

Launched by Mayor of South Dublin councillor Emma Murphy and Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan TD, the scheme is designed to provide protect 52 properties against significant flooding.

Due to residential homes and businesses being “adversely affected by flooding” over recent years, “this important scheme is a welcome development for those families, businesses and wider community,” a spokesperson said.

Speaking about the Government’s €4 million investment in the project’s construction, Minister O’Donovan said: “This scheme will make a real difference to some 50 families and businesses that live with the risk and impact from flooding in this community by protecting them against significant flooding, along St. Enda’s Park and Whitechurch Road.

“I want to thank the local community for its constructive and valuable engagement to the scheme’s design and its patience during the design and planning process.

“I am delighted to announce that the OPW’s own staff will construct this scheme that I expect it to be substantially complete by the end of 2025.”

Mayor Emma Murphy said she was “delighted” to represent South Dublin County Council and the local resident.

“Flooding has also been identified as a key climate change risk to the Dublin region, so this scheme also highlights SDCC’s and the OPW’s commitment to the flood resilience theme contained in the current Dublin Climate Change Action Plan and also shows SDCC’s and the OPW’s endeavour in trying to alleviate this risk.”

Whitechurch is one of 150 flood relief schemes being funded by the Government’s €1.3 billion investment in flood relief under the National Development Plan to 2030.

The scheme is also designed to provide protection from the additional impact from Climate Change.

Forming part of the five main tributaries of the River Dodder, the 7.7km Whitechurch Stream rises between Tibradden and Kilmashogue Mountains.

It flows northerly through Marley Park and St. Enda’s Park, onto Willbrook, where it meets the Owendoher River.

Flowing through parkland and urban areas, the Whitechurch Stream includes a large number of bridges, culverts and weirs.