Wicklow harbours and fishing facilities to get significant enhancements as latest funding drops
The funding through the Fishery Harbour Centres and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme will assist Wicklow County Council in the maintenance and development of fishery and aquaculture linked marine infrastructure in their ownership.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will administer the programme and will co-fund up to 75pc of the eligible project costs, up to a maximum reimbursement of €187,500, with the local authority co-funding the remaining costs.
A grant of €187,500 has been allocated towards underwater concrete repair works at the east pier in Wicklow Harbour, with the full cost of the project estimated at €249,700.
€45,000 has been allocated for main entrance works at Wicklow Port, with a total project estimate of €60,000.
A grant of €26,250 has been provided for pedestrian and vehicle roller gate infrastructure at Arklow Harbour, at an estimated project cost of € €35,000.
€187,275 has been reserved for the installation of CCTV and access control systems at Wicklow and Arklow Harbours, with the full cost of the project estimated at €249,700.
In welcoming the funding, cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District Cllr Gail Dunne said: 'The east pier has been undermined by the sea and it has been a long-term problem so any funding provided will prove really helpful.
'The works due to take place at the entrance to Wicklow Harbour will involve some dredging to keep the main entrance clear to help improve the depth of the harbour so bigger ships can come in. Some works have taken place previously and this should help to further improve the harbour.
'Most ports in the country already have CCTV and access control systems in place. It's important to have the proper security in place for the movement of timber and different things down at the harbour.'
Tánaiste Simon Harris also welcomed the announcement and said this was a significant boost to marine infrastructure in Wicklow.
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'This is a vital and welcome investment in Wicklow's marine infrastructure. The increased total value of individual projects across the country in this year's allocation gives local authorities the opportunity to continue the ongoing development and enhancement of harbour and fishing facilities, while also allowing for some marine leisure developments, benefitting different cohorts of users.
'These projects will ensure our harbours are safer, more secure, and better equipped to support local communities, businesses, and tourism. I am proud to have supported this funding and will continue to advocate for investment in our coastal infrastructure.'
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