Annagassan Embankment Repairs on the Glyde & Dee Arterial Drainage Scheme, Co. Louth.

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: 17/2025 AA Screening and Natura Impact Statement for Annagassan Embankment Repairs on the Glyde & Dee Arterial Drainage Scheme, Co. Louth.

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 became aware that during high tide events water leakage occurred through embankment E1 in Annagassan, Co. Louth. The OPW propose to repair approximately 48 meters of the embankment at two locations between chainage 0-140.

The proposed works will be carried out under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 and 1995.

The proposed works include the excavation of the dry side of the embankment to remove the top soil and place a geosynthetic clay layer on the embankment and anchored a minimum of 300mm into the base of embankment. A layer of compacted Class 2 embankment material is then placed over the geosynthetic layer.

At a second location on the embankment a reinforced concrete wall will be constructed in the centre of the embankment measuring 3m x 2m x 300mm and then covered with embankment material.

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 embankment repair works on E1 of the Glyde & Dee Arterial Drainage Scheme in Co. Louth, 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:

- Dundalk Bay SAC (000455)

- Dundalk Bay SPA (004026)

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 Friday 23rd May to Friday 4th July 2025, up to 5pm.

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 Glyde & Dee Arterial Drainage Scheme: Annagassan Embankment Repairs” in the subject title.