Consultation
Public Consultation for Bank Protection Works on the Boyne Arterial Drainage Scheme
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Consultation is open
Statutory Consultation on proposed works by the OPW as required under Section 42 (6) and (8) of the EU (Birds and Habitats) Regulations 2011, as amended.
Ref: 34/2024 AA Screening and Natura Impact Statement for bank protection on the Boyne Arterial Drainage Scheme, Co. Meath.
The OPW (as the Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland) has statutory responsibility for the maintenance of arterial drainage schemes completed under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 and 1995, as amended.
The OPW propose to install bank protection along a section of eroded river bank along channel C1/31 between chainage 1600-1700. The eroding river bank forms part of the foundations underpinning the adjacent public road. In the interest of public safety, the works are being undertaken to reduce the risk of undermining the adjacent public road from continued erosion and as part of maintenance of the Boyne Arterial Drainage Scheme in Co. Meath.
The proposed works will be carried out under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 and 1995.
The proposed works include the excavation of the current riverbank and installation of rock armour (large boulders) below bed level and built up to reinforce the roadway. Lean mix will be used at the back of the boulders to secure the rock armour in place. The resultant channel maintenance consists of standard practice undertaken to restore the Scheme design levels. The works site and adjacent compound are residential and business use, comprised of concrete yards and manicured lawn. No bush cutting/branch trimming, tree cutting or mulching will be required undertaken and will avoid the residential bird nesting season (from the 1st March to 31st August as per the Wildlife Act (1976)).
In accordance with Section 42 (6) and (8) of the EU (Birds and Habitats) Regulations 2011, as amended, the OPW are now required to carry out an appropriate assessment of the implications of the proposed works, alone and in combination with other plans and projects, on the integrity of a Natura 2000 site in view of its conservation objectives.
An Appropriate Assessment Screening and Natura Impact Statement for the reinstatement of the river bank on channel C1/31 of the Boyne Arterial Drainage Scheme in Co. Meath, has been prepared in respect of these proposed works and is available to view or download at the link provided below.
The OPW now invites submissions and observations from the public relating to the likely significant effects of the proposed works on the following European Sites, if carried out:
- River Boyne & River Blackwater SPA(004232)
- River Boyne & River Blackwater SAC (002299)
The OPW shall have regard to any submissions or observations received during this public consultation when arriving at a decision. The OPW will also consult with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
We are committed to engaging with stakeholders in a clear, open and transparent manner. Any person or organisation can make a submission in relation to this consultation. Public consultation forms an important part of advancing the consideration of the environmental impacts associated with these works and allows the involvement of the public in developing a better outcome for the associated Natura Site.
Submissions will be accepted from 6 weeks from date of going live.
Submissions will not be accepted outside the consultation period.
You can make a submission via email: please email your submission to nis@opw.ie and clearly include “Maintenance of Boyne Arterial Drainage Scheme: C1/31 Bank Protection” in the subject title.