Contentious plans for a long awaited new pier in Doolin are up for discussion in Ennistymon today.
Permission for the 6 million euro development was granted by Clare County Council last year following a long wait from local fishermen and ferry operators, but was appealed by surfing representative groups who say the structure could damage waves off Crab Island.
An Board Pleanala is expected to hear from those for and against the development at an oral hearing later this morning.
A new Doolin pier has been sought for years now to boost the local fishing industry, improve access for Aran Island ferry operators and stimulate the North Clare economy, and according to a Clare County Council evironmental impact statement the current pier is not fit for purpose.
But plans have been subject to many delays and though the project was given the green light in March 2011, surfers groups opposed to the development appealed that decision to an Bord Pleanala.
The Irish Surfing Association and The Lahinch based West Coast Surf Club say the pier will have a damaging impact on surf tourism in the area and could destroy the appeal of the Crab Island wave – one of Ireland’s most sought after surfing experiences
An Bord Pleanla’s public oral hearing get’s underway at the Falls Hotel at 10 o’clock this morning, and is expected to hear more from those who’ve made submissions on Doolin pier, with a decision expected on whether it will proceed due in the New Year.
