Cork County Council Reveals Sandbag Collection Points for Flood-Prone Areas
Cork County Council has announced sandbag collection points for flood-prone areas as winter storms approach. This initiative responds to increasing concerns about flooding, particularly influenced by heavy rainfall. The move was prompted by Independent councillor Mary Linehan Foley, who advocated for sandbag availability in Youghal during the winter months.
Sandbag Collection Points in East Cork
The council is set to provide sandbags for the community at several depots in East Cork. These will include:
- Cork Road Depot, Midleton, P25 H522
- The Lodge Storage Yard, Midleton, P25 D832
- Killeagh Depot, P36 XE13
- Youghal Depot, P36 T380
Availability may change based on the expected flooding type and operational needs. During the week of November 10, approximately 484 sandbags were distributed at the Cork Road Depot, responding to flood risks in areas like Midleton, Castlemartyr, and Mogeely.
Focus on Youghal
Councillor Linehan-Foley emphasized the necessity of ensuring sandbags are accessible in Youghal for the months of January and February. This period is notably prone to tidal flooding.
Drainage Maintenance Concerns
Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty voiced concerns regarding drainage maintenance, as many constituents reported blocked drains. Council engineers reported that while the gully cleaning program is “substantially complete,” maintenance efforts are ongoing.
Some locations, particularly in Youghal, have been identified as needing attention due to blockages from debris and sediment. Senior executive engineer Dave Clarke confirmed that the council aims to address these issues. Recent efforts have focused on clearing leaf blockages to mitigate flooding risks.
Mogeely Flood Prevention Plans
In response to concerns from Fianna Fáil councillor Patrick Mulcahy, Clarke shared plans for flood prevention work in Mogeely. This project will include installing new culverts on the Killeagh road approach, which is crucial for managing floodwaters. Mogeely’s specific topography makes it especially susceptible to rapid rainfall, highlighting the importance of these improvements.
As Cork County Council prepares for potential winter floods, the establishment of sandbag collection points and ongoing drainage maintenance underscore their commitment to community safety. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about available resources to protect their properties effectively.
