Part of the Tullamore urban area is located on the Tullamore River floodplain, and as a result it has been historically subject to inundation. The OPW, Tullamore Town Council and Offaly County Council jointly undertook to assess the flood risk in the Tullamore area. The resulting Flood Risk and Assessment and Management Study (2008) ultimately led to the preferred flood relief scheme.
The Tullamore River (Tullamore) Drainage Scheme was formally exhibited under the Arterial Drainage Acts between 13 December 2010 and 21 January 2011, and was confirmed by the Minister on 13 September 2011, with a Project Budget of €1.3m.
The Scheme provides protection to the Whitehall Estate, Cluain Darach Estate and Tullamore College sports ground, by constructing flood defence structures (walls and embankments) to a 1 in a 100- year standard, benefitting approximately 100 residential properties and 1 school property.
The Tullamore River (Tullamore) Drainage Scheme was completed in 2013.