Opposition say water treatment plant would ruin cliff walk

STIFF local opposition has been raised against a proposed plan by Uisce Eireann for a wastewater treatment plant in Kilkee.

A planning application was lodged on January 3, 2024, by the state body to build a pumping station and wastewater treatment plant on two separate sites in the townlands of Kilkee Lower and Foohagh, Kilkee.

Subject Site A is located near residential dwellings at Victoria Park while Subject Site B is situated off the Dunlicky road, a popular scenic walk and drive.

There has been massive backlash from local residents, with over 70 third party submissions lodged with Clare County Council.

Many have objected to the proposed location for the treatment plant and its proximity to the scenic cliff walk on the Dunlicky road and bathing spots at the Pollock Holes, stating that such a development would spoil the natural beauty of the site and affect tourism in the area.

A submission by local resident Orla Costello stated that the development will “destroy the Cliff Walk and surrounding scenery/areas”.

“The Cliff Walk is the main reason that Kilkee has such a strong tourism trade all year round,” Ms Costello’s submission reads. 

“This will have a major impact on Kilkee and the trade of local businesses. I strongly object to this proposal, not just for tourism alone but for the locals of Kilkee.”

The Haugh family, owners of Stella Maris Hotel in Kilkee, wrote that they have “strong concerns” over the proposed location.

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“If allowed to go ahead the WWTP will be clearly visible from various points along the cliff walk whose visual appeal is integral to Kilkee’s status as a tourist destination and plays a pivotal role in the town’s economic well-being and sustainability,” their submission stated.  

A number of local councillors have also lodged submissions expressing concern over the site location, including Cllr Rita McInerney who has called for “a full public participation consultation on this project”.

Kilkee Fianna Fáil councillor Cillian Murphy also lodged his concerns, stating that while no one “disputes the necessity for this development - in the wrong location this is the wrong development.”

Concerns have also been raised over the proposal to only provide primary water treatment services, which according to a number of submissions, fall short of what is needed in the west Clare town.

A spokesman for Uisce Eireann stated they would not be commenting on the contents of submissions while the planning application is live.