The Office of Public Works (OPW) has approved Cork County Council’s application for support under its Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, allocating €82,021 for targeted measures in Ballingeary, Co Cork.

The funding will cover selective clearance of bankside trees and scrub in The Ford area, from Inchinossig Bridge to the Bunsheelin River, and along the Bunsheelin River from the GAA pitch to its confluence with the River Lee.

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Introduced in 2009, the OPW scheme supports small-scale works and studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection issues where solutions can be identified and delivered quickly.

Projects with an estimated cost of up to €750,000 are eligible for consideration, with up to 90% of costs available for approved proposals. Applications are assessed against economic, social and environmental criteria, including a cost–benefit ratio.

Works that are typically the responsibility of local authorities are generally not funded by the OPW, although partial support may be considered if they also reduce flood risk to properties. Local authorities must ensure that measures do not increase flood risk elsewhere and are responsible for initiating and managing any approved works.