July 2024 Update:
The project team is currently undertaking ecological and geotechnical investigations to inform the design and environmental assessment of the Limerick City & Environs Flood Relief Scheme. The following is an update on the status of ongoing investigations:
Ecological Investigations:
Ecology Survey Lot 1 - Terrestrial Habitat
This August, Ayesa is scheduled to undertake the Terrestrial Habitat survey for the Scheme. This survey is key to understanding the types and condition of natural areas within the Scheme, including grasslands, woodlands, hedgerows, and wetlands. The survey will identify sensitive areas and will provide information to develop plans to mitigate any impacts on these natural areas.
Ecology Survey Lot 2 - Mammals, Amphibians and Reptiles
A survey of mammals, amphibians and reptiles present within the flood relief scheme area is scheduled to commence in September. Procurement of a specialist surveyor is ongoing. The survey will establish the presence or likely absence of species and identify any important habitat for them within the scheme area.
Ecology Survey - Lot 3 Bats
Southern Scientific Services Ltd. have been engaged to undertake a survey of bats present within the flood relief scheme area. This survey will identify the various species and any important habitat. The survey commenced in June.
Ecology Survey Lot 4 Freshwater ecology, floating river vegetation and Estuary survey
MWP are scheduled to commence a survey of the aquatic habitats and species within the scheme area in September. This survey will include both freshwater and estuarine areas and will identify the important habitats for aquatic species.
Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS):
JKI Environmental have been undertaking the IAPS monitoring and treatment for the past 2 years. They have recently completed the Spring 2024 Treatment cycle and are set to commence the Autumn 2024 treatment cycle in August.
Ornithological Surveys:
The Ornithology survey has been running for the past 2 years. MKO have completed the 2023-2024 Wintering bird survey earlier this year. The 2024 breeding bird survey is currently underway.
Geotechnical Investigations:
Geotechnical Investigations are being undertaken across the scheme areas. IGSL Ltd. has commenced investigations in the Annocotty and Limerick City North areas. Priority Geotechnical Ltd. completed an extensive non-intrusive geophysical investigation across the scheme area in June.
Procurement is also well advanced for further geotechnical investigation contracts and a contract is about to be awarded to commence investigations in the Coonagh, Clondrinagh, Thomondgate, Quinspool South, Athlunkard and Castletroy areas. Similarly, a further contract will be awarded in the coming weeks to undertake investigations in the Dock Road, Dooradoyle, Limerick City South, and Corbally areas.
