Work on Bantry’s long-awaited Mill Culvert project will begin in late 2026 or early 2027.

The Southern Star last week reported work on the town’s Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) would not start before 2031, according to the Office for Public Works (OPW).

But the Mill Culvert project, separate from the relief scheme, has now been moved to the next stage.

The culvert renovation is being overseen by Cork County Council in partnership with Uisce Éireann; the OPW estimate the cost to be around €21m.

Funding has now been allocated for the first step, to technical advisers to start on the detailed design of the new culvert system for the town centre.

Senator Noel O’Donovan welcomed the funding, which ‘will allow the project to map out how the upgraded culvert will run through Wolfe Tone Square, New Street and Bridge Street, as well as preparing the necessary documentation for the construction phase’.

‘It is hoped that the construction will begin towards the end of next year and early 2027,’ said the Senator.

‘We have seen flood relief schemes in Skibbereen and Bandon, and it is crucial that this is completed for Bantry. It is essential for the long-term resilience of Bantry.’

Meanwhile other interim measures against flooding are being taken in the town, as the council told how 32 barriers have been supplied to 20 properties as part of Phase 1 of the Individual Property Protection (IPP) Scheme.

Phase 2 is ongoing, and will provide a further 51 barriers to 28 properties.

‘Works to install enhanced temporary tidal flood mitigation are commencing. In addition, screens have been designed to capture and manage debris on the Mill and Alley Rivers and will be installed in due course, subject to landowner agreement and seasonal constraints.’

Since 2021 the OPW has approved €335,000 to Cork County Council to strengthen its emergency response against recurring flooding in Bantry. Alongside individual property protection, this has also included the installation of non-return valves, purchase of pumps, and large sandbags.

In addition, the Irish Red Cross has offered emergency relief for flood damage in Bantry under its Emergency Humanitarian Support Scheme, with emergency payments of up to €20,000 available for small businesses, sports clubs, and community groups for replacement of flooring, fixtures, and damaged stock.

The scheme is open to those who were victims of flooding between October 4th and 6th 2024.