Approval granted for long-awaited flood relief scheme at Lough Funshinagh
A long-awaited temporary solution to the flooding crisis at Lough Funshinagh has been approved by An Bord Pleanála two months earlier than scheduled.
The approval granted to Roscommon County Council was welcomed in a statement issued today (Friday) by Taoiseach Simon Harris.
It means the council can now proceed with the scheme, which will see pipes being used to pump excess water from Lough Funshinagh to the Cross River, the townland of Carrick in South Roscommon.
The planning application said the flood relief system would be in effect for two years, in order to provide time for a longer-term solution to be put in place.
In its planning application, the council stated that the flooding at Lough Funshinagh had so far claimed two houses and that inaction would pose would pose a "significant threat" to local homes, lands, and the village of Curraghboy.
Commenting on the planning decision, the Taoiseach said: "Today's news is very welcome. I have met with a number of residents who have been affected by the flooding at Lough Funshinagh and saw first-hand the situation homeowners were dealing with.
"I want to thank OPW Minister Kieran O’Donnell, his officials, and Roscommon County Council for driving forward in finding a solution for the families involved.
"We will continue to work with the OPW and Roscommon County Council to ensure these works are done quickly."
Residents living close to Lough Funshinagh in areas such as Ballagh, Rahara, and Lysterfield, Curraghboy, have been grappling with severe flooding for years.
The situation deteriorated further in 2024, when water levels reached a record high, forcing the closure of two roads in the area.
Mark Keaveney of Roscommon County Council said the local authority "warmly welcomed" An Bord Pleanála's decision today.
"This critical approval paves the way for us to provide much-needed relief to properties affected by flooding in the vicinity," said Mr Keaveney.
"We acknowledge the collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders involved, especially the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Minister of State for the OPW, Kieran O’Donnell, whose focus and support have been instrumental in progressing this scheme.
"Roscommon County Council will now commence the implementation phase of the project in accordance with the conditions of the decision.
"In parallel, the council continues to work towards a consent application for the permanent solution to address the many challenges that surround Lough Funshinagh."
The planning decision has also been welcomed by Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan, who described it was "wonderful news" and "an immense relief for the families who have endured years of hardship."
"These controlled measures will protect homes, livelihoods, and farmland, while also addressing the environmental significance of the lake," said Senator Dolan.
“The new approach will manage the flow of water in a controlled and sustainable way, reducing the risk of flooding and providing stability for the community."