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Noxious weeds threatening future of Courtmac's beach

July 11th, 2018 11:54 AM

By Southern Star Team

Local councillors John O'Sullivan (left) and Paul Hayes standing amongst the overgrowth at Courtmacsherry beach. (Photo: Martin Walsh)

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A wild overgrowth is threatening the future of Courtmacsherry beach as the area is set to become part of the Wild Atlantic Way and also enjoy significant benefits when the €10m sewerage scheme is constructed.  

BY MARTIN WALSH

A WILD overgrowth is threatening the future of Courtmacsherry beach as the area is set to become part of the Wild Atlantic Way and also enjoy significant benefits when the €10m sewerage scheme is constructed.  

What was once an extremely popular beach adjacent to Courtmacsherry Hotel at the end of the village is becoming more overgrown with the passage of time.  

Some previous attempts by locals to clean up what has now become an eyesore were stopped by the authorities that claimed it is a protected area – despite the presence of noxious weeds.  

Local councillors John O’Sullivan and Paul Hayes, who visited the area on Saturday last have called for intervention to restore what was a Blue Flag beach. 

Cllr Hayes said: ‘We have a great project here with the new €400,000 clubhouse for the Courtmacsherry Rowing Club and its being undermined by what’s going on here at the beach. We have been working with various departments but it’s just being kicked from one to the next without any progress. 

Cllr John O’Sullivan said: ‘It’s a lost resort to the village, it was always the attraction here and was known from Bandon to Cork and beyond, it was known throughout Munster. 

He added: ‘Now, it’s overrun, the sand has been taken over by weeds, it’s appalling. The beach is gone because of bureaucracy and lack of maintenance.’

David O’Halloran of the local gastropub, the Lifeboat Inn told The Southern Star: ‘In such a scenic spot it’s a pity that this is not an amenity for everyone. It needs to be returned as a beach.’

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