Ministerial update on Strandhill coastal erosion defence works receives warm welcome

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

An update regarding progress on addressing coastal erosion and flooding risks in Strandhill from Minister of State at the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief, Kevin Boxer Moran has been welcomed.

There has been confirmation of continued engagement between the OPW and Sligo County Council, alongside enhanced funding supports under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.

Notably, the recent increase in the scheme’s funding threshold, from €750,000 to €2,000,000, will provide greater capacity for local authorities to deliver critical coastal protection measures.

Welcoming the latest update from Minister Moran regarding progress on addressing coastal erosion and flooding risks in Strandhill, Cllr Marie Casserly said, “I very much welcome this positive update from the Minister, which reflects the urgency and importance of protecting Strandhill from ongoing coastal erosion. The increased funding threshold is a significant and practical step that will help accelerate essential works.”

Sligo County Council has outlined a phased approach to the works, prioritising the most urgent interventions. Phase 0 will involve the installation of approximately 90 metres of rock armour at the car park, where erosion has come within one metre of the pedestrian footpath. This phase is currently being prepared for planning and is expected to be delivered in Q2 2026.

Phase 1, scheduled for 2027, will include the refurbishment of 200 metres of existing revetment along the promenade and an extension of 90 metres. This phase will require Maritime Area Consent and planning permission. It will also incorporate soft engineering measures, such as the development of a boardwalk and dune restoration works extending towards the wastewater treatment plant. These nature-based solutions aim to rebuild and stabilise the dunes in a sustainable manner.

Cllr Casserly added, “It is encouraging to see a balanced approach being taken, combining necessary hard protections with softer, nature-based solutions that work with the coastal environment. This is vital for the long-term resilience of Strandhill.”

Further potential measures, including more extensive hard defences, will be subject to additional environmental and technical studies and will be considered as earlier phases progress.

Cllr Casserly concluded, “I will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure that these works proceed as quickly as possible. Protecting Strandhill’s coastline, community, and local economy must remain a top priority.

“I also want to sincerely thank the Strandhill Coastal Erosion Committee for their tireless advocacy and dedication over many years in highlighting these issues and keeping them firmly on the agenda.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.