€12m Castleconnell flood relief scheme moves to detailed design after planning approval
OPW-led project to provide flood protection for around 50 properties with construction targeted for 2027
26 January 2026 | 📧 editor@breakingground.news
The Office of Public Works (OPW) and Limerick City and County Council have confirmed that the €12 million Castleconnell Flood Relief Scheme has progressed to the detailed design stage, following the granting of planning permission by An Coimisiún Pleanála.
The scheme, once delivered, will provide flood protection to approximately 50 residential and commercial properties in Castleconnell that have been identified as being at risk. The move to detailed design represents a key milestone and clears the way for OPW direct labour construction works to commence in 2027.
Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran TD, said the progression of the project would provide certainty for the local community. He noted that advancing to detailed design enables construction planning to begin and will deliver long-term protection for homes and properties in the village.
The approved scheme has been progressed by Limerick City and County Council in partnership with the OPW and was designed by JBA Consulting and Egis Ireland Ltd. It includes a range of flood defence measures, such as flood walls and embankments along the River Shannon, demountable flood barriers, targeted road raising, culvert upgrades and wider drainage improvements.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said the granting of planning permission allows the project to move from planning into delivery, describing it as a critical step in ensuring Castleconnell is better prepared for future extreme weather events.
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery, said the scheme would reduce flood risk, protect jobs and help safeguard the village centre, supporting the long-term viability of the community.
The project is now moving into the landowner agreement and detailed design phase. Limerick City and County Council, working with the OPW and the appointed engineering consultants, will focus on meeting all planning conditions to ensure the project progresses on schedule.
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, said the next stage will ensure the scheme is delivered to high environmental and engineering standards, with ongoing engagement planned with landowners and the wider Castleconnell community as the project advances.
