Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice, David Stanton has welcomed the signing of the contracts for remediation at the East Tip of Haulbowline Island. These contracts will allow for the commencement of works on the site at the East Tip, the primary focus of the Haulbowline remediation project.
“The conclusion of the tender process and the selection of a consortium led by PJ Hegarty and Sons Ltd will mean that the extensive clean-up of the East Tip waste deposit site can begin. I understand that the planned works will include some marine measures to prevent tidal incursions, access and infrastructure works and works to cap the waste present on the site to render it safe for any future use”, noted Minister Stanton.
“In 2011 the Government approved a proposal to enable the clean-up of the East Tip of Haulbowline Island and remains committed to this project as it progresses. Planning applications were submitted to An Bord Pleanala in October 2013 and the waste licence application to the Environmental Protection Agency in November 2013 both of which involved extensive preparatory work.
“Cork County Council is acting as agent of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed TD on the remediation project. In addition to managing the planning and waste licence application, the Council has also facilitated other preparatory works such as improving the roadway leading to the Island and also the strengthening of the bridge connecting Haulbowline Island to Ringaskiddy which will allow for the removal of heavy scrap metal from the site.
“I am delighted that the core remediation work required on Haulbowline can now begin. For many years a large area of the island has been unusable due to the steelworks waste and I understand that on completion of the remediation project will allow for the development of a public amenity in this beautiful of Cork Harbour. A public recreational area on Haulbowline will greatly add to the Harbour’s tourism product, which is already substantial with Spike Island, the many attractions in Cobh, Fota Wildlife Park, Cork City and beyond”, concluded David Stanton.