Kilkee Residents Claim Uisce Éireann Using "Erroneous Information" To Progress Treatment Plant

Clare FM

Uisce Éireann is being accused of working off "erroneous information" as it looks to build a sewage treatment plant near a popular West Clare tourist attraction. With the decision date looming for the water utility's application to construct a four-hectare development in the vicinity of Kilkee Cliff Walk, locals have launched a petition expressing opposition to the plans. Named Ireland's "best-rated tourist destination" this summer with over 90% of its Trip Advisor reviews deeming it "excellent", Kilkee Cliff Walk has long been one of the county's most adored outdoor attractions. With plans for a major infrastructural development just 100 metres from the four-kilometre trail having come to light, however, there are fears among some people locally that its natural beauty and appeal are in jeopardy. On January 3rd, Uisce Éireann applied for planning permission for a 4.56 hectare development consisting of a new wastewater treatment plant, a foul pumping station and the installation of new sewers in the townlands of Kilkee Lower and Foohagh, Kilkee. Since the application went public, almost 100 public submissions have been put in by concerned residents and local representativies who have various qualms with the project. In the last week, local man Martin Busher has launched a petition on change.org entitled "Save Kilkee Cliff Walk". He believes the plans are being progressed without adequate consultation within the community. Since going live last Tuesday, the petition, which claims the walk will be "destroyed" if the facility is built, has garnered over 850 signatures. Uisce Éireann's planning application claims the wastewater treatment plant would serve a population of 7,900. Architect and former town councillor on Kilkee Town Council, Tom Byrne, meanwhile, insists this is "ludicrous" as it doesn't factor in the high volume of tourists typically in the area who'll put additional pressure on capacity.