The Office of Public Works (OPW) has approved Laois County Council’s application for support under its Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.

A total of €78,737 has been allocated to carry out remedial works on a retaining wall on Manor Road in Mountmellick, Co. Laois, with the aim of reducing localised flood risk.

Introduced by the OPW in 2009, the scheme funds local authorities to undertake small-scale flood mitigation works or studies where solutions can be identified and delivered quickly. Since its launch, 12 funding applications by Laois County Council have been supported under the scheme.

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Projects with an estimated cost of up to €2,000,000 are eligible, with funding of up to 90% available for approved proposals. Applications are assessed against economic, social and environmental criteria, including a cost–benefit ratio.

Works that are normally the responsibility of local authorities are generally not considered for OPW funding; however, partial support may be offered where such works also reduce flood risk to properties. Local authorities must ensure measures do not increase flood risk elsewhere and are responsible for commencing and progressing any approved works.

More information, including annual lists of approved projects, is available at www.floodinfo.ie/minor-works/.