‘Nothing of concern’ found during ecological study of Hook Lighthouse as expansion project gets the go-ahead
Wexford PeopleFears that the presence of a rare, protected plant species would delay the expansion of the Hook Lighthouse Visitor Centre have been allayed following an ecological survey of the site.
In April of this year, Wexford County Council (WCC) said that the development, which will see a new Interpretive Design and Experience Plan built at the Hook Lighthouse Campus, had been held up after a “threatened ecosystem” which was “at risk of disappearing” was discovered on the clifftops at Hook Head.
However, at the September meeting of the New Ross Municipal District (NRMD), it was revealed that “nothing of concern” had been located during the subsequent survey of the site.
“There were some issues flagged towards the end of last year with regards to ecology which stalled the project,” said Head of Special Projects, Sean Meyler. “When the ecological survey was conducted in late April there was nothing of concern found. So, we’re back on track.
“During the delay we took the opportunity to make some improvements to the design of the visitor centre.
Confirming that his team was now finalising the design, Mr Meyler anticipated that the project will be submitted to the national planning authority, An Coimisúin Pleanála (ACP), for review by the end of 2026.