The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced the approval of funding for Cork County Council to address flood risks and coastal protection in Whitegate Village. The grant, totaling €107,708, has been sanctioned under the OPW's Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.

The funding is specifically earmarked for the procurement of an engineering consultant tasked with conducting comprehensive surveys and a detailed study of the area. The consultant will be required to recommend specific, actionable measures to mitigate the threat of flooding to local properties.

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Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Kevin "Boxer" Moran, confirmed the approval following the Council's application. The Minor Works scheme is designed to allow local authorities to undertake necessary flood protection projects or studies where a solution can be readily identified and implemented in a relatively short timeframe.

Key Scheme Details

• Funding Threshold: Applications are considered for projects estimated to cost up to €750,000.

• Support Level: The OPW provides up to 90% of the total cost for approved projects.

• Criteria: Projects are assessed based on economic, social, and environmental factors, including a rigorous cost-benefit analysis.

The announcement represents a significant step forward for the residents of Whitegate, providing the technical foundation needed to secure the village against future coastal and inland flooding events.