Local Authotiry News - Vol. 40. No. 2

• GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES HOUSING FOR ALL - A NEW HOUSING PLAN FOR IRELAND • THE LIBERTY SQUARE ENHANCEMENT PROJECT IN THURLES • ENERGY SAVING SMART STREET LIGHTING SET FOR THURLES, DRANGAN AND CLONOULTY

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CONTENTS Vol 40 No. 2

FEATURES

Published by:

GILTRON LTD RIVERVIEW LODGE, DUBLIN ROAD, NAVAN, CO. MEATH. Tel: 00353 46 9072841 Email: info@localauthoritynews.ie Website: www.localauthoritynews.ie

ISSN NO. 1393-0394 LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS is available FREE OF CHARGE and ON LINE to all Local and Central Government Bodies throughout Ireland.

Published bi-monthly it is disseminated to Local Authority Managers, Assistant Managers, County Secretaries, Finance Officers, Principal Officers, Department Heads, County Engineers, City Engineers, Chief Quantity Surveyors, Senior Architects, Plant Superintendents, Senior Executive Engineers, Town Clerks, Purchasing Officers, Administrative Officers, Inspectors, Park Superintendents, County Librarians, etc. in all Government Departments, County Councils, Corporations, Office of Public Works, Urban District Councils, StateSponsored and Development Bodies and Agencies.

CORK CITY COUNCIL LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE AIR QUALITY STRATEGY

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CONSTRUCTION COMMENCED FOR NATIONAL SURF CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

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FIREBIRD PROVES A LEADER WITH ANOTHEREXCITING STEP IN REDUCING CO2 EMISSIONS FROM SOURCE TO SUPPLY FOR ITS CUSTOMERS

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GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES HOUSING FOR ALL - A NEW HOUSING PLAN FOR IRELAND

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GRANT INVESTS OVER €250K IN R&D TO SUPPORT DRIVE FOR BIOFUEL TO HEAT IRISH PROPERTIES

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EI ELECTRONICS LAUNCH THE SMARTLINK GATEWAY

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NET ZERO NEEDS LOCAL COUNCILS

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OFFICIAL OPENING OF HAULBOWLINE ISLAND RECREATIONAL AMENITY

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THE LIBERTY SQUARE ENHANCEMENT PROJECT IN THURLES

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ENERGY SAVING SMART STREET LIGHTING SET FOR THURLES, DRANGAN AND CLONOULTY

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REGULARS DEPARTMENT BRIEFS

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IRISH WATER UPDATES

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PRODUCT INFO

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CLASSFIEDS

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Cork City Council Launches Innovative Air Quality Strategy

The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Colm Kelleher today launched the Cork City Council 2021-2026 Air Quality Strategy at one of the two city centre locations where five ʻCityTreesʼ have been installed.

Cork City Council is the first local authority in the country to devise such a strategy and this follows on from the delivery of a high-level air quality monitoring system across the city and the introduction of an ambitious city centre pedestrianisation programme over the past year. Over €2 million has been invested in cycling infrastructure including the addition of over 20km of new and improved cycling lanes and the installation of 4km of bollards to make cycling safer and more attractive. The National Transport Authority has committed 3.5bn as part of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy to the development of world-class sustainable transport solutions in Cork.

The Air Quality Strategy sets out short, medium, and long-term initiatives to improve air quality in Cork City including proposing: • A ʻlast mile Electric Vehicle Deliveryʼ service for HGV (heavy goods vehicles) in the city.

• The creation of Low Emission Zones /Clean Air Zones • The increase of tree cover in the city including the development and enhancing of ecological corridors, the securing of wetland areas, increasing the number of pocket parks and parklets and the expansion of areas to be used to offset carbon levels. Next year, it is expected that up to 1,500 trees will be planted following the planting of 1,200 this year – a sixfold increase on the year previous.

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Cork City Council will continue to closely work with residents and community groups, ESB, University College Cork, the Environmental Protection Agency, Munster Technological University (MTU) and Healthy Cities, amongst other groups to develop and implement the strategy.

At the core of Cork City Councilʼs Air Quality Strategy is the existence of an air quality monitoring system. Cork City Council has worked with UCC to develop and improve upon the existing air quality monitoring infrastructure. The partnership has focused on developing the most accurate and cost-efficient method of air quality monitoring and the creation of the Cork City Air Quality Dashboard. The potential to develop a trial, air quality forecasting system will be investigated in collaboration with experts from UCCʼs Centre for Research into Atmospheric Chemistry.

Earlier this week, work began on the installation of five striking high-tech ʻCityTreesʼ in Cork city centre as part of a suite of activities to tackle air pollution. The installation of the new ʻCityTreesʼ is in keeping with the goals laid out in Cork City Councilʼs Air Quality Strategy.

The 4m tall units are being installed at St Patrickʼs Street near French Church Street and on Grand Parade near Cork City Library. Using Internet Of Things (IOT) technology, these pieces of smart street furniture are covered in a mixture of moss cultures that filter harmful pollutants out of the air. Each ʻCityTreeʼ can filter the air usage equivalent of up to 7,000 people per hour.

The ʻCityTreesʼ project is part of Cork City Councilʼs continued efforts to improve the cityʼs air quality by combatting fine dust, particle pollution as well as other pollution associated with traffic congestion. Fine dust consists of a complex mixture of tiny particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres harmful to humans and is linked to lung and cardiovascular problems. Air pollution is responsible for up to 1,300 deaths in Ireland each year, according to the EPA. Air purification is achieved when the specialised culture of moss absorbs air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) and emits clean air. The moss acts as a filter to ʻtrapʼ and ʻeatʼ fine dust making it a sustainable and regenerative fine dust filter. Scientific studies by the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research shows that the moss cleans about 80% of fine dust from the air.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Colm Kelleher said: Up to 1,300 people are believed to die prematurely each year from air pollution. The ʻCityTreesʼ project will really start the people of Cork talking about the wider impact of air pollution. This project is associated with ongoing efforts to ensure that sustainability is at the heart of the Councilʼs operations and future growth as witnessed by the Governmentʼs €3.5 billion investment in sustainable transport in the city via the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) and the recent pedestrianisation of the Marina and city centre streets and our ongoing investment in our cycling and pedestrian infrastructure”.

Director of Operations, David Joyce said: “The City Trees provide a site-specific solution to the challenge of air pollution and are one of a suite of actions in Cork's Air Quality Strategy. Air pollution is a public health concern and Cork City Council is the first local authority in the country to progress such a strategy. They also align with the cityʼs designation as a World Health Organisation (WHO) Healthy City and its smart city strategy which sets out a series of actions to ensure the city is at the forefront technological innovation”. ʻCityTreesʼ also acts as an attractive piece of street furniture or meeting point and are in place in London, Berlin and Glasgow. In a recent public survey conducted by Cork City Council on attitudes towards air pollution, 97% of the 744 respondents deemed air quality as important or very important while 47% of those answered the survey are most concerned with air pollution from traffic,” he added.

For more information on the CityTrees initiative, please visit: www.corkcity.ie/corkcitytrees

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Construction commenced for National Surf Centre of Excellence

The delivery of the National Surf Centre of Excellence in Strandhill took a major step forward this summer with the commencement of construction. The €2.7m facility is funded by Sligo County Council, Failte Ireland, and the Department of Rural Community and Development.

The facility will be a used by local, national and international surfers, and will cater for those providing advanced surfing training up to international standard – including video analysis equipment, training rooms and virtual surfing experience.

The centre will include an interpretative display of the history of surfing in Ireland and the many local tourist attractions, and will provide a central meeting and promotional point for local tourism businesses, including walking tours and adventure providers.

The Cathaoirleach Councillor Paul Taylor said ʻ This is a hugely important project for our Council and our community. Strandhill is already recognised as a prime surfing destination, and this facility will further enhance its reputation on the national and international stage, Our objective to promote Sligo as a key tourism hub receives a major boost with this development.ʼ Chair of Strandhill Community Maritime Company Councillor Declan Bree described the Maritime Centre as 'A flagship project for Sligo and the region. The delivery of the centre is due to the exceptional partnership of the surfing community and the people of Strandhill community who have worked with the County Council and the funding agencies. This facility will be the best of its kind in the country and will attract great interest from local and visiting surfers.ʼ

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Chief Executive Martin Lydon said 'The National Surf Centre of Excellence is the latest in a series of major capital investments in our countyʼ. Mr Lydon paid tribute to the project team, the Chair and Members of the Maritime Board, Failte Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development for their hard work and expertise in bringing it to fruition.”

Project details: Strandhill Community Maritime Ltd • Chair: Councillor Declan Bree • Secretary: Mick McEnroe Design Team The Design Team is as follows: • Sligo County Council: Sean Martin A/Senior Architect, Keith Monaghan, Executive Engineer • Keys and Monaghan - Architects (Design Team Lead) • Sammon - Quantity Surveyors • Taylor & Boyd - Civil and Structural Consultant Engineers • Delap & Waller - Mechanical & Electrical Consultants • Park Hood - Landscape Architects Building Contractor: • Arken Construction Ltd., Collooney, Co. Sligo and Norris Plant Hire Ltd., Ballisadare, Co.Sligo

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2. Match Funding: Sligo County Council has committed to providing a total contribution of €400,000 in match funding for the project.

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4. Project Programme: Construction commenced on 30th June 2021 with duration of 61 Weeks (August 2022).

5. Design Team: The Design Team is as follows: • • • • •

Keys and Monaghan - Architects (Design Team Lead) Sammon - Quantity Surveyors Taylor & Boyd - Civil and Structural Consultant Engineers Delap & Waller - Mechanical & Electrical Consultants Park Hood - Landscape Architects

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6. Building Contractor: Arken Construction Ltd., Collooney, Co. Sligo and Norris Plant Hire Ltd., Ballisadare, Co.sligo, will construct the National Surf Centre of Excellence as a Joint Venture.

7. Project Description: The building will comprise over 500 sq. meters of space laid out over two floors and 107 sq. meters of outdoor covered space. The Centre will also accommodate the following: • An interpretative display of the history of surfing in Ireland and the tourism assets of the local area.

• A central meeting and promotional point for local tourism businesses e.g. walking tours, adventure providers and other experience providers.

• Orientation point for a wide range of activities.

• Changing, storage and shower facilities for local and visiting surfers.

• Public bathrooms.

• Provision of modern facilities to the local community for meetings, training and events such as festivals, parties, social gatherings etc.

• Cater for those providing advanced surfing training up to international level. This will include video analysis equipment, training rooms and virtual surfing experience.

• Retail space for souvenirs and merchandise.

8. Project Update: Arken Construction and Norris Plant Hire Ltd. took possession of the site on 30th June 2021 and commenced with site setup.

Progress to date: • • • • • •

Existing house and out buildings demolished on site.

Demolition material and vegetation removed from site Reduced dig for Raft Foundation complete Foul drainage lines installed to perimeter of building Raft foundation formwork complete Steel fixing commenced for Raft Foundation (Concrete Pour 21st Sept)

Programme: The project is on programme and is due for completion at the end of August 2022.

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Firebird proves a leader with another exciting step in reducing CO2 emissions from source to supply for its customers In the wake of the UNʼs damning report on climate change which flagged the starkest warnings yet about the state of the planet and the damage caused by human activity, Firebird, Irelandʼs market leading manufacturer of commercial and domestic boilers, has revealed another ground-breaking step taken to realise its zero net ambitions.

Long before the UNʼs recent report which warned that the opportunity for humans to take action to reverse or even slow the process of global warming was closing, Firebird has been ambitiously leading the charge in renewable innovation to combat our climate woes.

Following its successful trials in homes in Ireland, Firebird has championed the switch to eco-friendly HVO as a drop-in replacement for kerosene and other fossil fuels in domestic boilers which could go a long way towards saving the planet and helping Ireland reach its 2030 Climate Action plan goals.

Firebird passionately believes that we all have a part to play to reduce carbon emissions and has also now seized the chance to offer customers the benefit of an even greener supply chain by partnering with an installer who has become the first business owner in the UK to fuel his work van with HVO. The partnership is an ideal fit for Firebird which is the first to engineer future-proofed commercial and domestic boilers that are fossil fuel free and ready for the switch to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).

Firebirdʼs three manufacturing sites in Ireland, Northern Ireland and England are already fuelled by HVO. Partnering with Alan Marcon from York who is putting HVO into practice through his transportation is another link in the chain and way in which Firebird can support its customers to make more environmentally-driven decisions.

HVO is an advanced fossil-free fuel derived from 100% renewable waste streams. As a drop-in replacement to diesel with 90% less emissions, the use of HVO has been rapidly gaining popularity across the UK and Europe with many regarding it as a ʻno brainerʼ for transport and heating applications.

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Recognising the revolutionary shift towards HVO which is now being used across industries from fuelling fuel jets to data centres, manufacturing sites to nursing homes, Firebirdʼs forward-thinking engineering ensures its boilers are HVO ready for the switch, when its customers are.

As a plumber and heating engineer who has spent numerous years installing Firebirdʼs boilers, Alan Marcon shares the same progressive and innovative spirit of Firebird.

“I knew HVO could be successfully used to heat homes and businesses but I wanted to know if it could stand the test of being used to fuel my work van, my VW transporter,” Alan explained.

“We all want to be as green and sustainable as we can but there didnʼt seem to be any viable solution for work vehicles. I didnʼt know of any electric vehicle that was suitable for carrying the load of heavy tools and driving the distance that youʼd need from a commercial vehicle.”

“As with Firebirdʼs boilers, there was no modification required - switching to HVO was so simple, inexpensive and easy. Iʼm delighted and proud to say my work van is the first commercial vehicle in my industry that is carbon zero and it works just as well, if not better.”

“Itʼs only a matter of time before HVO is widely used and regarded as a greener and more viable alternative to fossil fuel.”

Mark Doyle, General Manager with Firebird explained how this is another innovative step to give its customers the added advantage of knowing theyʼre choosing an even greener supply chain.

“Our belief is that over time and hopefully not before long, the entire supply chain could be run on HVO which would make it almost 100% free of carbon emissions. Customers will have the power to make an enormous impact on the environment by switching to HVO for their home heating and in their purchasing decisions. Choosing Firebird gives that peace of mind knowing that our customersʼ needs and our responsibility to the environment are the key drivers behind everything we do.”

For more information, visit www.firebird.ie

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Grant invests over €250k in R&D to support drive for biofuel to heat Irish properties In a bid to help reduce carbon emissions in rural and hard to heat Irish properties, Irelandʼs leading heating appliance manufacturer Grant, has invested over €250,000 in pioneering a major R&D breakthrough to do just this.

Over the past six years Grantʼs R&D team has worked with third level institutions, industry partners and renewable fuel producers, focusing on more sustainable and carbon saving fuels. In addition, the manufacturer has also innovated its award-winning Vortex boiler range to be biofuel compatible. All new Grant condensing boilers are now future-proofed to use HVO through making a slight modification to the boiler and older Grant condensing boilers can also be adapted to HVO.

Biofuel compatible Grant Vortex range *depending on biofuel and % blend

Founder, Stephen Grant

Commenting on the R&D project, founder Stephen Grant said, “In the early days of our research, we identified potential bio and synthetic fuels that would both meet greenhouse gas reduction targets and be commercially viable. This began with developing a boiler that could use a biofuel called FAME (fatty acid methyl esters). Our team successfully used a 30% blend of FAME with regular kerosene, although problems arose when the blend of biofuel exceeded 30%. This resulted in increased NOx emissions, issues with fuel storage stability and more rapid aging or poor performance in cold conditions.”

“The breakthrough came during testing and field trialling with boilers successfully using 100% biofuel known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). HVO feedstocks are generally rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil, certified sustainable palm oil and non-food oils such as jatropha oil and algae oil as well as waste animal fats. Even more sustainable are waste and residue oils – both of which are now a substantial contributor to the feedstock”, added Stephen.

While HVO is a relatively new fuel to Ireland, in Europe and the UK it is used for Marine and Public Transport and to power generators. Currently, Irish distributors include Nicholl Oil in Carryduff, Co. Down and Inver Energy in Blackpool, Co. Cork.

Stephen comments, “The use of 100% HVO, can result in around 88% reduction in carbon emissions and using this or a percentage blend of HVO with kerosene, will enable rural and hard to heat Irish properties to transition to a renewable green alternative from 100% kerosene at an affordable cost, with minimum disruption to everyday home lives.

One very important benefit of HVO to the Irish construction industry is that builders and relevant trades can continue to focus on building new houses in large numbers without being diverted to slow and costly deep retrofitting projects, enabling more heat pumps to be fitted.

“Utilising HVO will also help Ireland to significantly decarbonise approximately 680,000 existing residential homes, at a cost of approximately €500 per existing oil boiler installation when matching and changing to a new biofuel burner and substantially less if the boiler is already biofuel ready”, said Stephen.

Think Heating. Think Grant.

Visit www.grant.eu for more information on Grantʼs range of innovative heating solutions.

You can also follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL or Instagram @Grant_IRL

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Official Opening of Haulbowline Island Recreational Amenity

The Haulbowline Island Recreational Amenity in the heart of Cork Harbour was officially opened by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Gillian Coughlan, Minister for Defence Simon Coveney and Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath.

In the largest project of its kind to date in Ireland, the Haul-bowline Remediation by Cork County Council has trans-formed the former East Tip site into a 22-acre Peopleʼs Park in the middle of Cork Harbour.

Haulbowline, home to the headquarters of the Irish Naval Service, was also formerly the location of Irelandʼs only steelworks from 1939 until its closure in 2001. 650,000 cu-bic metres of by-products from the steel production was deposited here over a 40-year period.

The extensive remediation of the site saw the delivery onto the island of over 15,000 HGV loads of material, 47,000 tonnes of rock armour material to protect the shoreline, 180,000 tonnes of subsoil and 37,000 tonnes of topsoil, transforming the site into the scenic landscaped recrea-tional amenity it is today.

Complete with 4kms of fully accessible pathways, a 1 km jogging circuit, playing pitches and seating areas that lend themselves to remarkable views of the harbour and wildlife observation, the island has hundreds of native tree mixes and plants to promote biodiversity.

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Speaking at the opening Taoiseach Micheál Martin said, “The Peopleʼs Park Haulbowline is a pearl among a string of initiatives which do justice to the second-largest harbour in the world.”

The Taoiseach added, “The development of the harbour as a tourist amenity will provide immense dividends, in terms of employment and leisure, to both the local community and visitors from far and wide.”

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Gillian Coughlan, con-gratulated the project team, saying, “The remediation of the East Tip was always going to be challenging. Cork County Council, with funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and in collaboration with a range of stakeholders, including local residents, have risen to that challenge with phenomenal success. The multi-awardwinning project is widely regarded as a model of best prac-tice, and the result today is a great amenity for local com-munities and a valuable asset for the entire Cork Harbour region.”

Minister for Defence Simon Coveney added that “Today, marks a real turning point in the story of the Island's reme-diation to an area of real civic worth to the Community and also as a suitable home to our Naval service.”

Minister Coveney concluded by thanking in particular the officials of Cork County Council and the Department of Ag-riculture, Food and Marine for their successful stewardship of this development developed at a cost of some €25m.

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath said, “The opening today has been a long time in the making and I want to acknowledge all the hard work in-volved in delivering this valuable amenity which has already proven to be so popular since it opened to the public. This Park is another step towards the fulfilment of the immense potential of the harbour area as a tourist and amenity hub, and will complement the tourist attractions such as Spike Island and at Camden Fort Meagher.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, com-mented, “A huge undertaking, this remediation project is of national and international importance. Its remarkable suc-cess clearly demonstrates the importance of collaboration and public engagement. Cork County Council has received great support throughout the project from stakeholders and residents and with that Haulbowline East Tip has been completely transformed from a disused wasteland into a remarkable asset for the Cork Harbour Economy.”

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IP Telecom launches full integrated voice solutions for local authorities With the return to schools and the workplace in full flow, as well as broader investment by central government and the EU in key infrastructural schemes and the Housing for All plan, it looks like the next few years will see a major uplift in activity across the economy.

A key aspect in ensuring that this activity runs smoothly is communication – between colleagues, suppliers, intra-governmental bodies, and dispersed teams. The post pandemic work environment no longer sees all aspects of activities hosed in County Halls or depots, but from anywhere.

With Central Government encouraging remote working for office-based staff as ways of breathing life into regional towns as well as the needs of teams on project sites, connectivity is vital to ensure the smooth day to day running of activities.

IP Telecom have developed a number of solutions to ensure seamless connectivity across industries from manufacturing and general business to not-for profit bodies, governmental, education and construction sectors. Our solutions encompass a fully integrated solution allowing phone extensions to become a single contact point (calls flowing to deskphone, laptops and mobiles simultaneously – and all internal calls counting as zero rated), which then integrate with the software you already use.

Calling (internal or external) can be made through collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams, or CRM tools like Salesforce all via your phone system. And not just these but literally hundreds of applications can be integrated, allowing for better connectivity, reporting and the cost savings and futureproofing that comes with the IP Telecom Phone Solution.

Active since 2010, with over 5,000 businesses and agencies with over 100,000 endpoints on our dedicated built for business network - IP Telecom are Irelandʼs Business Communications Network.

Find out more at www.iptelecom.ie

“Pleased to be associated with the Liberty Square Enhancement Project “

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Hartecast Street Furniture 051 424922 info@hartecast.com www.hartecast.com

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The Liberty Square Enhancement Project in Thurles seeks to deliver a vibrant Liberty Square at the heart of Thurles: a place to live, shop, work, socialise, play or “hang-out”.

The revitalised Liberty Square will become an engine for growth in and around Liberty Square and will enhance the attractiveness of Thurles as a place to live and a place for investment / employment.

The intricate project has evolved and developed over a number of years with invaluable support and input from Thurles Chamber and extensive public consultation which greatly influenced the design of the scheme.

Minister of State, Peter Burke, TD, meets local officials and Elected Representatives in September 2021 for an update on the Liberty Square, Thurles.

Phase 1: Funding was initially secured under the Urban Regeneration Development Fund to undertake a high-quality public realm enhancement scheme to the Eastern end of Liberty Square.

Part 8 Planning was approved by the Elected Members of Thurles Municipal District in May, 2017 following extensive public consultation.

Improvement works include: • Widening of footpaths to provide a better pedestrian environment and new high quality paving; • Realignment of carriageways to improve traffic circulation and pedestrian crossings; • Provision of one signalised and two uncontrolled pedestrian crossings; • Relocation of some on-street parking spaces to the new Liberty Square car park; • The provision of dedicated loading and short-term car parking/set down areas; • Feature lighting including smart low energy lighting; • The enhancement of Liberty Square through hard and soft landscaping measures, the undergrounding of services, civic space for markets and events and associated signage.

The new Car Park off Liberty Square opened on 1st October, 2020. Land was purchased from 6 different property owners and a vacant derelict building was demolished to create an entrance and facilitate the development of the car park.

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Works are substantially completed on the Southern side of Liberty Square and works have now commenced on the Northern side.

Expected completion of Phase 1 works by Q1 of 2022.

David Walsh Civil Engineering Ltd are undertaking the works on behalf of Tipperary County Council.

Integrated design consultancy services are being provided by Aecom for Phase 1 of this project.

Phase 2: Additional funding was secured under the Urban Regeneration Development Fund in March, 2021 to extend the scheme through the inclusion of the Western end of Liberty Square and sections of the approach roads converging on the Square.

Preliminary design drawings for Phase 2 are currently being undertaken and the Part 8 Planning process will commence in Q4 2021.

The Project Management Plan for the delivery and implementation of this project is ongoing.

Construction works progressing at Liberty Square, Thurles

by David Walsh Construction

Financial Contributions Tipperary County Council acknowledge and appreciate that this project could only be realised through financial investment by traders as a result of rates increases from 2003 and funding secured from the Urban Regeneration Development Fund, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Smart-Space Programme.

Tipperary County Council have partnered with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Interreg and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on this project.

Total project costs URDF Grant Match Funding- from rates, Development Levies, capital reserves TII Contribution Interreg Smart Lighting

€10,675,000 €5,390,000 €4,625,000 €600,000 €60,000

Tipperary County Council has committed €600,000 match funding to the project, with the remainder collected from increased rates paid by the traders. Land purchased for scheme was to the value of €1.1 million.

Conclusion We look forward to the completion of this Scheme that will connect the existing streets, spaces and facilities in Thurles town.

The Scheme will underpin the long term vitality, viability and vibrancy of the town through a safer, enhanced and unique urban environment thus attracting new traders and residents back into the Square.

It will also offer visitors a convenient and accessible landscape to enjoy the heritage, retailing, eateries and ambience that Thurles has to offer.

Cathaoirleach of Thurles Municipal District Cllr Seamus Hanafin said that ʻafter many years of planning we are starting to see how the finished Liberty Square will look, already we can see that it is going to be a much more attractive and vibrant place for shoppers and residents alike and brings it into the 21st century. The work has caused a huge amount of disruption to both the public and businesses and I want to acknowledge patience shown. Iʼm confident that it will revitalise and reenergise our town centre and will be a real boost to Thurles and the to the many businesses in Liberty Square

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Energy Saving Smart Street Lighting Set for Thurles, Drangan and Clonoulty • 600 Smart LED lights to be installed in Thurles, Drangan and Clonoulty.

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This SMART-SPACE Lighting Project is 60% co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the transnational cooperation programme Interreg North-West Europe.

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This Lighting Project will contribute to CO2 reduction.

Public street lighting is accountable for 35% of Tipperary County Councilʼs energy consumption. Upgrading an old streetlight to a standard LED can reduce energy costs by up to 50%. Currently, 28% of Tipperaryʼs total public street lighting is LED. Going a step further and installing Smart Lighting can result in even more energy savings and reduce CO2 emissions. As part of the Interreg North West Europe SMART-SPACE Project, working with 12 partners throughout Europe, Tipperary County Council is piloting smart lighting systems in Thurles, Drangan and Clonoulty. A smart lighting system uses technology such as motion detectors to monitor movement and adjusts the lighting accordingly.

The Roads Department is delighted to advise that Tipperary County Council has been shortlisted in the seventeenth annual Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2021 for this project. The Excellence in Local Government Awards 2021 (ELG Awards), sponsored by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage are held to recognise and celebrate the outstanding work being carried out by local authorities all over Ireland. This year, the awards will be hosted via an online ceremony on Thursday 18th November 2021. Best of luck to all involved in the project on behalf of Tipperary County Council, Tipperary Energy Agency and project Partners.

Over the coming months 600 SMART Led light will be install in the 3 Pilot Sites Thurles, and the Villages Drangan and Clonoulty.

Over the coming months 600 Smart LED lights will be installed across the 3 pilot sites. Tipperary County Council has been working with Tipperary Energy Agency and our EU project partners on this smart LED lighting pilot initiative which will be one of the largest installations of smart lights of any county council in Ireland. 40% of the associated costs are being funded by Tipperary County Council with the remaining 60% being funded by Interreg North West Europe (EU). SSE Airtricity Utility Solutions were awarded the contract following the tender process and they have commenced the installation of the Smart Lights.

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Michael Tierney, Tipperary County Council, Executive Engineer, said “These smart street lights give Tipperary County Council better control over how we manage our street lights. Initially in some areas we will pilot interactive lighting where we will have the technology to dim down lighting where there is no public movement detected and light up an area once the system detects pedestrians or cars approaching. In areas like car parks where there is no movement from midnight to 7.00 a.m., energy use could potentially be reduced by 80%. These lights can notify the Council of a fault and give more accurate information on power usage. In other areas such as Liberty Square, Thurles, we plan to pilot a different type of smart light where the light colours can even be changed through A pedestrian in Drangan in October 2020. The sodium vapour lamp fittings an app for special events like St. Patrickʼs with their yellow colour lighting the street will be replaced by Smart LED Day!”. lighting as part of the Interreg NWE SMART-SPACE project.

Liam Brett, Tipperary County Council, Roads Senior Engineer, said “The lighting will be monitored closely after installation and if the evidence proves to be reliable then an informed decision can be made by the council to invest in further smart lighting for the remaining 17,400 street lights in the county. This would further assist us with achieving our target CO2 reduction in Tipperary”.

Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, Cllr. Marie Murphy said “This pilot scheme, in cooperation with our European partners, shows what can be achieved when we work together for the good of our communities. It has never been so important to reduce energy consumption as it is now in the context of climate A street in Thurles taken in October 2020. The currently yellow street lighting change. Tipperary County Council can be will be replaced with Smart LED street lighting as part of the Interreg NWE a leader and show the way in this SMART-SPACE project. important endeavour.”

Siona Daly, Acting CEO of Tipperary Energy Agency said “We expect to see annual energy savings of approximately 150,000kWh, which is the equivalent electricity required to power nineteen homes in a year.

Furthermore, if this SMART-SPACE lighting project proves to be a success in Tipperary, it could impact national policy and decision making on public lighting which could be invaluable as the National Public Lighting Retrofit Project starts to gain traction.” https://www.nweurope.eu/projects/project-search/smart-space-smart-sustainable-public-spaces-across-the-nwe-region/

For further information please contact Mary Murphy or Patricia Fogarty at Tipperary County Council by email at mary.murphy@tipperarycoco.ie or patricia.fogarty@tipperarycoco.ie.

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Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces over €4.2 million in funding for schools, sports clubs, playgrounds and community organisations •

104 projects to benefit from funding under CLÁR Programme

•

Huge focus on young people and developing our outdoor amenities

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced over €4.2 million in funding to support our schools, playgrounds, infrastructure projects and community organisations across Rural Ireland.

The funding comes under Department of Rural and Community Developmentʼs CLÁR Programme, which is a key part of Our Rural Future, the Governmentʼs five year strategy to revitalise our rural towns and villages.

The announcement will see 104 projects supported in rural communities, under Measures 1 & 2 of the CLÁR 2021 programme.

Further announcements under the CLÁR programme will be made by Minister Humphreys in the coming weeks.

Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said: "The CLÁR Programme 2021 puts our young people at the fore. From investing in our schools, playgrounds, outdoor amenities and other projects – we are demonstrating the value and appreciation we have for the leaders of the future."

"If the Pandemic has taught us one thing, itʼs that our young people are our shining lights."

"Investing in them is an investment in our future – thatʼs what todayʼs announcement is all about."

"This particular announcement under my Departmentʼs CLÁR Programme is the perfect example of why ʻOur Rural Futureʼ will be a game changer for Rural Ireland."

The Minister made the announcement after visiting the community in the small village of Mullan, Co Monaghan.

The population of village was reduced to just one during The Troubles.

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The Minister continued: "The likes of Mullan are a prime example of small villages in the hearth of rural Ireland that have a tremendous community spirit."

"But if we do not support villages such as these through investment, we run the risk of them falling into decline."

"My job as Minister is to re-invigorate Rural Ireland – My Department and I are determined to do that. Announcements like this, under the CLÁR Programme, are the proof behind our five year policy ʻOur Rural Futureʼ."

Since the CLÁR Programme was reintroduced in 2016, it has provided funding of over €38m to over 1,600 projects under various measures.

This year, Measure 1 of the Programme will provide almost €2 million in support for projects in 52 communities.

The projects will provide and improve safety infrastructure such as footpaths, public lighting, traffic calming measures and car parking facilities. This measure also continues to support projects that help adapt the environs of schools and community facilities to help meet challenges arising from the pandemic.

Measure 2 funds outdoor community recreation facilities and this year funding of over €2.2 million will be provided in support of 52 projects across communities throughout the country. This measure includes supports for the development of new and enhanced community spaces including supports for playgrounds and Multi Use Games Areas (MUGAs).

Examples of successful projects announced today include: • Clare: New 1,500 meter walking trail at Tulla Athletics Club – supporting the surrounding woods, picnic tables and hedgerow planting: €43,560.

• Donegal: To enhance the shorefront in support of the Culfaff Development Associaton. This will enhance the adjoining playground providing for outdoor exercise equipment, wheelchair accessible picnic benches and seating: €50,000 • Monaghan: Development of a Community play area in Mullan Village: €50,000 • Kerry: Kilgarvan GAA Hurling & Football Club: Installation of bicycle racks, outdoor bowling area, picnic area, parking infrastructure, disability parking and biodiversity landscaping: €50,000 • Laois: Ballyfin Community Development Association - Provision of a childrenʼs playground; safe surfacing, seating, fencing, biodiversity & sensory planting - €49,500 • Sligo: Coolaney Development Company – Construction of asphalt finished pump track for bikes €49,500 Projects funded under CLÁR 2021 Successful projects under the other CLÁR Measures will be announced in the coming weeks.

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Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces €1.2 million to support recreation facilities and outdoor tourism in Coillte forests •

Funding to enhance visitor experience at over 30 locations nationwide

•

Investment to include upgrades to pathways, trails, access roads, boardwalks, carparks and toilet facilities

•

New report shows visitor numbers to Coillte sites increased by 40% during Pandemic

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced €1.2 million in funding to support recreation facilities and outdoor tourism in forest parks and other Coillte sites.

The investment includes the upgrades of pathways, trails, access roads, boardwalks, carparks and toilet facilities at 33 Coillte sites nationwide. This additional funding means that the Department of Rural and Community Development will be investing €3.2 million in total in outdoor recreation facilities at Coillte sites this year.

Over 18 million individual visits are made to Coillte forests every year with the visitor numbers increasing by 40% during the Pandemic, according to a report published by the Minister today.

Between March and December of last year, some 2.2 million people visited the top 50 Coillte forests.

In recognition of the growing popularity of our forest parks, Minister Humphreys is today allocating €1.2 million to Coillte in addition to the €2 million already allocated.

The funding is designed to enhance the experience of visitors, support rural tourism and develop Irelandʼs unique forest amenities.

The investment also supports the objectives of Our Rural Future, the Governmentʼs five-year strategy aimed at revitalising rural communities.

Among the projects to receive funding include: • • • • • •

Donadea Forest Park, Co Kildare: Significant upgrade to entrance and parking area, as well as the provision of toilet units - €345,000 Devil's Glen, Co Wicklow: Replacement of three footbridges and full upgrade of access route into the car park - €94,500 Ards Forest Park, Co Donegal: Upgrade to the main access road from the entrance to the car park - €60,000 Castlefreke Forest, Co Cork: Full upgrade of the forest paths - €40,000 Western Way, Co Galway: Major repair to the 2,700 metre boardwalk including a new trail layout: €80,000 Cong/Clonbur, Co Mayo: Upgrade to the trail behind Cong Abbey, new trail to access the viewing point and new trail to facilitate equestrian access to the forest

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Minister Humphreys announced the funding during a visit to Rossmore Forest Park, Co Monaghan, which was the second most visited Forest in Ireland in 2020 after the Dublin Mountains.

During the visit, the Minister also announced the publication of a report outlining the activities funded by her Department and delivered by Coillte in 2020, as part of a five year strategic partnership to improve outdoor recreation facilities.

Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said: “For so many of us in rural Ireland, the Pandemic has taught us just how fortunate we are to have big open spaces on our doorsteps.

“From our fields, hills, mountains, rivers, lakes and forests – our unique outdoor amenities are amongst our greatest assets.

“This investment is a prime example of the positive impact ʻOur Rural Futureʼ is having in our rural communities.

“By investing in our wonderful forests and parks, we are making rural Ireland a destination for outdoor pursuits and adventure tourism, as well as supporting rural economies.”

The Minister added: “Coillte is Irelandʼs largest landowner and also the largest provider of outdoor recreation in Ireland.

“The fact that it welcomes 18 million visitors to its sites each year demonstrates the important role it plays in facilitating both domestic and international tourists.

“Coillte is uniquely placed to provide access to world class tracks and trails through their extensive estates and I am delighted that my Department is providing funding to Coillte to develop these 33 vital amenities.”

Daithi deForge, Head of Recreation at Coillte added: “Coillte is delighted to have the continued support of the Department of Rural and Community Development to maintain the recreation offering enjoyed by the public across the country.

“With an almost 40% increase in overall visitor numbers to our most popular recreational forests during Covid, access to the outdoors and Coillteʼs recreation facilities such as our forest parks, picnic areas, walking and cycling trails has never been more important.

“The support provided by the Department is vital to ensure that Coillte can continue to provide safe and enjoyable access for all the visitors to our forests”.

“The increased number of visitors to our forests has led to increased pressure on facilities and with the Departmentʼs support we are now investing in new and upgraded facilities at many of our recreation forests.”

Dr Liam Twomey, Chair of Comhairle na Tuaithe (the Countryside Council) commented: “Coillte are a key partner on Comhairle na Tuaithe and play a vital role in providing access to recreational infrastructure across Ireland.

“The facilities provided in Coillte forests are of immense benefit to communities and also to the tourism sector. Investment like this enhances the facilities and amenities which the public can use and I commend both Coillte and the Department for working strategically for the benefit of all.”

The report is available on the Department website here: https://www.gov.ie/en/policyinformation/fd0c9f-outdoor-recreation-infrastructure-scheme/

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Shannon to benefit as major wastewater upgrade is completed

We have completed a major upgrade of the Shannon Wastewater Treatment Plant which will protect the local environment and support growth and development in the area for years to come.

Irish Water has completed a major upgrade of the Shannon Wastewater Treatment Plant which will protect the local environment and support growth and development in the area for years to come.

This project, carried out in partnership with Clare County Council, brings immense benefits to the local community by ensuring that there is adequate treatment of wastewater, for now and into the future, as well as protecting public health and safeguarding the environment. The project also ensures compliance with the European regulatory standards.

Irish Water has invested €7.5 million to carry out this project which upgraded several aspects of wastewater treatment and provided new ventilation and odour treatment systems. The upgrades made maximum use of the existing infrastructure on site, minimising the carbon footprint of the works.

Irish Waterʼs Infrastructure Delivery Lead, Anthony Kavanagh said: “We are delighted to announce the successful completion of this project which brings many benefits to Shannon from an environmental as well as a social and economic point of view. Not only will it help to safeguard local waterways, improve the water quality in the River Shannon, and improve the wider environment, it will also accommodate housing and other potential developments in Shannon and the surrounding areas. The project has modernised and improved the performance of the wastewater treatment infrastructure in Shannon which the local community will benefit from for years to come.

“The completion of this project on time and on budget reflects Irish Waterʼs commitment to the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure in order to support local communities.

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“We would like to thank the local residents and businesses for their support and co-operation as we carried out this work over the last 16 months.”

Welcoming this announcement, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes said: “Shannon is recognised as one of Irelandʼs premier industry locations and currently boasts a diverse industry base comprising companies who are world leaders in their respective sectors. Having a modern, fit-for-purpose water and wastewater infrastructure is vital to meet the needs of existing businesses and for the attraction of new investment. The completion of this essential project by Irish Water is another important step in building a sustainable future for this region.”

The project, which was delivered by Ward & Burke on behalf of Irish Water, involved the construction of a new washwater pump station and the installation of new ventilation and odour treatment systems.

Upgrades were carried out to aeration tanks, blowers, final settling tanks, leachate and sludge pumping stations, sludge dewatering facilities, whilst also upgrading the instrumentation, control and automation processes.

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In Clare, new sewerage schemes are currently planned for five locations where there is untreated wastewater being discharged: Liscannor, Kilrush, Kilkee, Ballyvaughan, and Clarecastle. Upgrades of wastewater treatment plants are also being progressed in Doonbeg and Ballycannon (Meelick).

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Upgrades to wastewater network in Omeath as part of SWELL project Irish Water in partnership with NI Water will commence construction works to upgrade the wastewater network in Omeath, Co Louth as part of a major cross-border project to improve water quality in Carlingford Lough and Lough Foyle.

The Shared Waters Enhancement and Loughs Legacy (SWELL) project, which has been awarded €35m under the EUʼs INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), involves the construction of new wastewater treatment works as well as upgrades to sewerage networks on both sides of the border to address wastewater pollution and improve the quality of water in Carlingford Lough and Lough Foyle. The projectʼs legacy will be the development of a unique ecosystem model that will support further improvements in these shared waters. Match-funding for the project has been provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in Ireland.

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Why Drop Test Reports are critical when approving Fall Protection Safety Grids for Water & Wastewater Networks.

Attention to safety is critical when selecting steel access solutions which facilitate the safe extraction of equipment from a chamber and ensures the safe movement of the operators while doing so.

Specification for Fall Protection Safety Grids The required specification for pumping stations, wet wells and valve chambers, is for a hinged, fall protection grid to be provided below the access cover and to be capable of withstanding a 250kg load over the total area of the grid. The lifting effort of the grid shall not exceed 25kg.

The relevant standards when specifying fabricated steel, Flush Fit or Above Ground covers are: EN 124-3: and BS 9124 depending on the clear opening. As EN 124 does not refer to safety grids or testing, the Drop Test outlined in BS 9124 provides a comprehensive safeguard against varying standards in production that can occur. Fall protection safety grids are the most important safety feature when specifying access solutions, to protect operators against the risk of injury or death from falls into open chambers.

The Drop Test Explained This test requires the safety grid to be capable of withstanding a 140kg mass applied over a footprint area of 300mm x 200mm and dropped from a height of 2 meters onto any point of the grid. This simulates (and exceeds) the vertical impact of a human being falling onto the grid, at any point onto an area similar in size totheir footprint. Request a Drop Test Report to ensure safety girds comply fully to the requirements of the standard.

Designed for Safety and Peace of Mind Additional safety features, such as working platforms will allow operators safe access when there are large openings that require multiple covers. Selecting the correct access & fall protection solutions for water networks can be a daunting challenge with factors such as compliance, operator & public safety, ergonomics and asset security requiring equal consideration. EJ are here to help.

We can offer specification guidance for a range of infrastructure access solutions in ductile iron, galvanised steel, or composite material to suit your project requirements.

We offer Engineers Ireland approved CPD seminars - contact us on 057 9123100 to organise a webinar for your organisation.

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These works, which are the last in a programme of eight planned upgrade works under SWELL, will address infrastructural deficiencies in the sewer network in Omeath to ensure that all wastewater is transported to a new wastewater treatment plant being progressed separately by Irish Water. The SWELL network improvement works in Omeath, together with the construction of the new Omeath Wastewater Treatment Plant will provide increased treatment capacity to meet the needs of the village, allow for future growth, reduce the impact of storm water overflows and improve the water quality of Carlingford Lough by ensuring wastewater is treated in compliance with EU directives.

Main construction works on the network upgrade will commence in early August 2021 and are expected to be completed in November. Works are being delivered by BSG Civil Engineering Ltd on behalf of Irish Water in adherence with HSE and government guidance on COVID-19.

Speaking about the works, Irish Waterʼs Conor Gilleran said, “This is the first time that targeted wastewater improvements to address wastewater pollution are being delivered on both sides of the border through collaboration between both water utilities. Separate to the SWELL project, Irish Water is also currently progressing plans to construct a new wastewater treatment plant in Omeath in order to treat wastewater in compliance with EU directives. The SWELL network upgrades in Omeath, alongside the new Omeath Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Northern Ireland Water upgrades, will improve water quality in Carlingford Lough. The SWELL project will also help to improve and safeguard into the future, the environmental, social and economic value of this renowned waterbody.”

Tomasz Piadlo, SWELL Project Manager for NI Water explained, “The SWELL project provides a welcome opportunity for both water utilities to work collaboratively to prioritise and align projects in a coordinated way so as to make maximum positive impact on the shared water bodies on the island of Ireland. The commencement of Irish Waterʼs work in Omeath marks another key milestone in the fouryear SWELL project. The improvements being made at Irish Water wastewater assets in Donegal and Louth will support the extensive upgrades carried out across the border by NI Water to improve the water quality in Carlingford Lough and Lough Foyle.”

Highlighting the importance of the project Gina McIntyre, Chief Executive of the SEUPB, said: “We all know that nature does not respect geographical borders between regions. Therefore, cross-border cooperation is vital if we are to help protect our shared local environment. This project represents a significant and long-term investment from the INTERREG VA Programme in the water quality in Carlingford Lough and Lough Foyle. It is testament to what can be achieved when two jurisdictions work together to help address a common problem, such as wastewater pollution, and in doing so make significant long-lasting positive impacts on our local environment leading to a cleaner and safer future.”

Irish Water continues to work at this time, with our local authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of drinking water and wastewater services.

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Works progress to support future growth and development across Kildare

Irish Water, working in partnership with Kildare County Council, continues to progress the delivery of the Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme to safeguard the environment and support economic and social development across Kildare.

Irish Water is delighted to announce that works on Monread Road in Naas, and on Standhouse Road in Newbridge have been completed ahead of schedule and both roads are fully re-opened. Permanent reinstatement works will be carried out at both locations over the coming months and we will continue to update local businesses and the community ahead of these works.

These projects form part of a significant €38 million investment in the wastewater network in Kildare that involves laying 18km of new sewers to improve the wastewater network and safeguard the environment. The project is essential as the current wastewater infrastructure is unable to support the needs of the area and it is not compliant with the Urban Wastewater Treatment Regulations 2001 and conditions as set out in the Environmental Protection Agencies Wastewater Discharge Licence.

Speaking about the project, Olive Marshall Regional Lead with Irish Water, said “Irish Water is committed to investing in the wastewater treatment infrastructure in Kildare to support the needs of the growing population and to safeguard the environment. These works are part of the Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme, a €38 million project that is needed to provide East Kildare and the surrounding areas with the infrastructure needed to support the building of houses, schools, attract new industry and allow companies to expand and grow.”

Irish Water is working proactively with our delivery partners and as part of a multi-agency working group to ensure that our construction works are carried out in a controlled and safe manner, in keeping with Government and HSE guidelines to protect workers, their families and the broader community.

For further information on this project and associated works, please visit our Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme project page.

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Works progress to end the discharge of raw sewage into Galway Bay

Irish Water is delighted to announce the commencement of the Spiddal Sewerage Scheme. The new wastewater treatment plant and sewerage infrastructure to be constructed as part of this scheme will eliminate the discharge of raw sewage into Galway Bay. Irish Water, working in partnership with Galway County Council, will invest over €4 million in this project. Once operational, the new plant and associated infrastructure will ensure compliance with wastewater discharge regulations. It will also improve water quality in Galway Bay and protect recreational waters for swimming, surfing, fishing, boating and sightseeing, as well as protecting the integrity of the local marine environment.

The works will be carried out by Coffey Water Limited working on behalf of Irish Water and will be delivered in line with COVID-19 restrictions. Works on the project are expected to commence in the coming weeks and will be completed by early 2024.

Patrick Greene, Regional Infrastructure Lead with Irish Water, commented on the project, “We are looking forward to delivering this important project on behalf of the local community in Spiddal. All new infrastructure has been sized to accommodate future population growth and the project will enhance the local environment and provide a platform for social and economic development of the area well into the future.

“The project will involve construction of a new wastewater treatment plant that will serve a population equivalent of 1,000 which equates to stopping over 600 wheelie bins of raw sewage being discharged to Galway Bay every day. Construction of new sewer pipelines, rising mains and a below ground pumping station will also be required to transport wastewater to and from the new treatment plant in Spiddal.

“We look forward to working with the local community to deliver this essential project in conjunction with our partners Galway County Council and Coffey Water Limited and eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into Galway Bay.” Irish Water and our appointed Contractor, Coffey Water Limited, will be in contact with the local community in Spiddal in the coming weeks regarding the upcoming works as well as throughout the project.

For more details on the project, please check out our Spiddal Sewerage Scheme project page.

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WAVIN LAUNCHES TREE TANK SOLUTION TO SUPPORT NATURE IN URBAN SPACES Wavin, the leading manufacturer of drainage and plumbing products, has announced the launch of its innovative TreeTank solutions to support climate resilient cities and bring more nature into urban environments.

The TreeTank ensures trees can be easily and effectively integrated into urban areas without disrupting vital infrastructure.

By incorporating more trees into designs, city planners and local authorities can improve local air quality, reduce the growing urban heat effect, boost biodiversity and improve wellbeing. Trees can also play a key role in urban stormwater management, reducing the volume of rainwater entering the old drainage networks of many towns and cities in Ireland.

Trees should be considered as a key component of any sustainable drainage system (SuDS), however engineers struggle with the conflict for roads and paths that require the compaction of the ground and trees that require an uncompacted growing medium to allow sufficient space for tree roots.

The planting of trees has long been a burden for those working in planning and infrastructure, with several common issues cropping up when using traditional banks or pits at the side of the road. Unpredictable growth can lead to trees damaging adjacent pavements, roads and even nearby buildings. The lack of space for tree roots to grow safely and productively also impacts the health of the tree, reducing the positive impact they can have on the area.

Wavinʼs TreeTank - root chamber system; provides the space within which the uncompacted growing medium is placed whilst providing sufficient support for pedestrian paths and walkways. The modular system manufactured from 100% polypropylene with a service life up to 50 years is adaptable to any situation.

The Wavin TreeTank directs roots away from the surface and deep into the ground.

Wavin has trialed its TreeTank through several pilot projects alongside contractors and provincial authorities across Europe and the solution is now available in Ireland.

John McPeake, Wavin Ireland Technical Sales Manager commented: ʻAt last Landscape Architects and Engineers have a real solution to accommodate trees in urban areas, and the TreeTank is another tool for SuDS drainage systems in the battle to prevent climate change.

For more information on the TreeTank solution, visit www.wavin.ie/tree-tank or contact Email: projects.ie@wavin.com

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