Proposed new Doolin Pier the subject of Ennistymon oral hearing

AN Bord Pleanála will hold an oral hearing in Ennistymon next week in relation to the proposed development of a €5 million pier at Ballaghaline, Doolin.

Clare County Council okayed a new pier in Doolin in March 2011 under a Part Eight proposal but this was appealed to An Bord Pleanála by The West Coast Surf Club.
An Bord Pleanála requested the environmental impact statement from Clare County Council in September last year following the appeal. The hearing follows the submission of an EIS for a new pier in the North Clare village in July.
The existing Doolin Pier is tidal and is one of the busiest piers in the country for passenger traffic. The EIS described it as exposed, too small for the number and variety of users and is frequently congested. It added that the existing pier is “not fit for purpose”.
A large number of objectors opposed the council’s plans for the new pier amid concerns it would adversely affect surfing in the area and represent a health and safety hazard. The EIS stated the proposed pier would not have a significant impact on the waves at Crab Island and potentially a minor impact on the waves at Ballaghaline Point. It also outlined while one of the most popular access points would be lost as a result of the proposed development, a series of steps and platforms will be built to lead to an alternative access point.
The oral hearing is designed to allow further examination of relevant issues over and above the written submissions. The hearing is open to the public.
People who have made submissions in relation to the appeal, referral or application or people representing them may speak at the hearing.
Others may contribute at the hearing if “the inspector considers this appropriate in the interests of justice and subject to payment of the appropriate fee for making submissions or observations”. Public representatives may also speak at the hearing, at the discretion of the inspector.
The hearing begins at 10am on Wednesday in The Falls Hotel, Ennistymon.
An Bord Pleanála expect to make a decision on the future of the proposed pier by January 2013.