Dinish extension gets planning permission

A QUAY extension of 216m on Dinish Island at Castletownbere has been granted planning permission. 

Welcoming the decision by Cork County Council, Marine Minister Michael Creed said it paved the way for works to start on the project.

‘The new project is being undertaken in tandem with the development of a fit-for-purpose harbour administration building on the mainland and will bring the facilities in Ireland’s premier white fish port up to best international standards,’ he said, adding: ‘On foot of receiving planning permission my Department has now instigated a formal tendering process for the construction works, with a closure date of June 8th. On completion of the tender process, I expect to be in a position to award a contract and for works to commence by the end of October.’

The major quayside extension is in direct response to the increased fishing activity in Castletownbere since the last major development in 2010. Overall, landings have increased from 19,030t in 2010 with a value of €29.9m, to 30,522t and a value of €99.4m in 2017.

The Minister went on to say: ‘Taking account of the increased level of activity in Castletownbere and the unprecedented success in increasing landings by foreign vessels from 370 in 2010 to 1,543 in 2017, I am delighted that this major capital investment proposal has got the green light.’

He said when completed, the extension would put the port on a par with the best in Europe. ‘This will drive forward the local economy on the Beara peninsula and allow for a major expansion of the seafood support sector and other marine-related industries in the south west. The expanded landing facilities will also provide opportunities for further economic diversification.’