LIMERICK docks looks set to get a significant boost from proposals for the development of the Shannon Estuary which include the possibility of wind and wave-power farms along the coastline. In a presentation made to elected members of Limerick city council this week. senior scientist with the RPS consultancy group, Sheila Downes said that a study of the estuary, which takes in counties Limerick, Clare and Kerry has thrown up 24 areas of interest for various developments with eight of them situated on the Limerick coastline.
“One area in Limerick city is the Limerick Docks and we are saying it should be zoned for mixed use. It is critical to safeguard the port and adjoining lands as a strategic site for economic activity,” Ms Downes said.
She added that other uses for the deep water port could be explored, particularly the cruise ship industry. Other areas of growth and employment are being looked at, including exploring the possibilities connected with the islands in the estuary and suitable areas for marine farming activities.
“One of the objectives is to explore the possibility of promoting the estuary as a centre of excellence for renewable energy”, Ms Downes said.
To that end, two areas off the coast of Limerick were identified as having possibilities for commercial fishing and aquaculture.
She said that in any development and use of the estuary and the shoreline, protection of the natural environment would be of primary concern.
“The purpose is to draw up a report that would be available for any possible investors to look at to see what areas would best suit their project,” she said.
“We are looking to the future when things recover, we want to be poised to really develop the estuary,” the scientist added.
Public consultation has already started in the matter and the documents have been put on display and meetings organised. They are also available to google on-line.
“Currently we are giving the public time to study the documents and make submissions and that process will continue until February 15,” Ms Downes said.
