Minister Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran turns the sod on the Deerpark Cell, part of the Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme

Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Flood Relief, was in Athlone today to witness the turning of the sod on this vital cell of the scheme. These works are part of the eight cells being progressed as part of the €12 million Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme.

Speaking at the event, Minister Moran said:

“I am pleased to be here today to oversee the commencement of works at Deerpark which is a vital stage of the overall works on the Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme.”

The flood defences at the Deerpark Flood Cell will include the construction of flood walls, earthen embankments, sheet piling, a new bridge and the installation of flood gates and culverts which will run from Athlone Lock to West Lodge in Athlone. Embankment works and sheet piling are due to commence in the next two months with an estimated completion date of mid-2021.

The Minister concluded:

“I am satisfied that significant progress is being made in the implementation of the Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme. It is a credit to all of those involved with the project to be making such progress and I wish to thank Westmeath County Council, the consultants RPS and the staff of the OPW for their continuing commitment and effort in implementing this Scheme."

ENDS

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