Construction work is underway on a €10 million flood alleviation scheme in Athlone, Co Westmeath.

The project involves delivering eight parcels of flood defences on a phased basis to protect over 500 properties in the town. Works are currently underway at the Quay and at Brick Island, while works at Iona Park are nearing completion.

Speaking on Athlone on Thursday, Flood Relief Minister Kevin "Boxer" Moran outlined progress on the scheme and said planning has been granted for the works at Marine View and the Strand, with construction set to begin in the third quarter of this year and in the first few months of 2019 respectively.

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"Subject to planning approval, works will also be commenced at Deerpark, Golden Island and at the River Al (Cregan) at various stages during 2019," he said.

"I am delighted with the partnership approach we have taken in Athlone where Westmeath County Council has taken on the role of advancing the Scheme through the planning process and OPW is providing the funding for the development and implementation of this Scheme with the works being undertaken directly by OPW's own workforce."

Minister Moran continued: "The Government is providing investment of €1 billion on flood relief over the next decade under Project Ireland 2040, our national development plan and it is committed to ensuring that the planning and delivery of flood relief solutions is achieved in the shortest possible timeframe.

"I am satisfied that significant progress is being made in the implementation of the Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme. In partnership with Westmeath County Council, I look forward to the delivery of this Scheme for the community of Athlone."

(LM/MH)