Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v)

APPENDIX F.1(v)

ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT:

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEYS

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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5.0 ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEYS

5.1 INTRODUCTION The Archaeological Diving Company Ltd (ADCO) was appointed by RPS Consulting Engineers on behalf of to undertake an archaeological impact assessment in advance of dredging works proposed within Sligo Harbour and its approach channel.

The dredging will occur along the existing approach channel from the quays in Sligo Port to Oyster Island (Figure 5.1). The dredged material will be disposed of at an approved marine disposal area located some 52 km (28 nautical miles) northwest of Bungar Bank, west of Donegal Bay and southwest of Malin More Head, Co. Donegal and north of Downpatrick Head, Co. Mayo (Figure 5.2).

The study area comprises the works areas, while the architectural heritage assessment is required to include the immediate vicinity of Sligo Harbour and the wider locality where there might be any significant impact. The dredge areas are located within a Natural Heritage Area (NHA), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Special Protection Area (SPA).

The archaeological and architectural assessment is based on a desktop review of existing archival and published information. The architectural heritage assessment included a site inspection of the Sligo Port area and immediate vicinity. A marine geophysical survey of the dredge areas and the disposal area was carried out under licence from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG)1, licence 11D010. The primary geophysical survey data was reviewed and interpreted by a maritime archaeologist and is absorbed within the present report.

The following section addresses the known and potential archaeological and architectural For inspection purposes only. heritage environment; assessesConsent the ofactual copyright andowner requiredproposed for any other impacts use. on that environment from the works programme; and makes recommendations to resolve any further archaeological requirements prior to the works programme commencing and during dredging operations.

5.2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

A desk study of cartographic and archival information was conducted as a preliminary stage of archaeological assessment for the project. • Topographical files in the National Museum of Ireland; • Register of Monuments and Places in the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DoA,H&G); • National Inventory of Architectural Heritage; • Ordnance Survey mapping for the area since the First Edition six-inch series in 1838;

1 Heritage functions were transferred from the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (which has since been re-named to the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government) to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht with effect from 1 May 2011

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• Admiralty Charts; • Other historic mapping; • Inventory of Historic Shipwrecks and the Ports and Harbours record at the DoA,H&G • the record of licensed archaeological work; • relevant published sources were reviewed.

The following legislation, standards and guidelines were considered and consulted for the purposes of this evaluation:

• Advice Notes on Current Practice (in preparation of Environmental Impact Statements), 2003, EPA; • Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2000 and the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act 2000; • Frameworks and Principles for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage, 1999, (formerly) Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and Islands; • Guidelines for the Assessment of Archaeological Heritage Impacts of National Road Schemes, NRA; • Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements, 2002, EPA; • Heritage Act, 1995; • National Monuments Acts, 1930-2004; • Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Bill, 2006; • Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Pack, 2010 EPA; • In the absence of a specific Code of Practice between the Marine Industry and the Minister of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the following Codes of Practice that exist between industry and the Minister were consulted: Bord Gáis Éireann (2002); .Coillte (no date); EirGrid (2009); ESB Networks (2009), Irish Concrete Federation (2009), National Roads Authority (no date), Railway Procurement Agency For inspection purposes only. (2007). Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

• The following county and local development plans were considered and consulted for the purposes of this evaluation: • Heritage Plan 2007-2011. • County Donegal Development Plan 2006-2012.

On-site marine geophysical survey and architectural fieldwork has been carried out as part of the present report.

5.2.1 Limitations No limitations were encountered during the desk study.

5.2.2 Classification of Impacts/Effects Impact/effect categories will typically have regard to those set out in the ‘Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements’, 2002, EPA; ‘Advice notes on Current Practice (in preparation of Environmental Impact Statements), 2003, EPA; ‘Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), 2010’; and ‘Guidelines for the Assessment of Archaeological Heritage Impacts of National Road Schemes’, no date, National Roads

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Authority. Impacts/effects are generally categorised as either being a direct impact, an indirect impact or as having no predicted impact.

5.3 THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

The specific details of individual observations are included at the end of this section. A general overview of what the sum of these observations implies is presented below, and this is followed with individual presentations of the relevant source material.

5.3.1 Overview

The presence of Maeve’s Cairn southwest of Sligo town bears witness to the importance of Sligo Harbour as a natural inlet and landing place since early prehistoric times. The cairn which sits on top of acts as a sentinel overlooking the harbour and the landscape around and about. It would also have served as a beacon, to draw early settlers safely in from the Atlantic to the haven of the harbour. The development area for the present project occurs beyond the limits of what was subsequently to become the town of Sligo, and there is a small collection of artefacts and small field monuments, such as burials known as barrows, which reveal the extent of the prehistoric footprint on the headlands around the harbour. Shell middens are found in some numbers along the shoreline and these sites serve as the real testimony to active marine exploitation. Although none of the midden sites have been subject to scientific dating, it is clear from their partially buried nature that these most reasonably belong to the preshistoric period. Oysters, winkles and periwinkles were caught and processed on the shore, the users then throwing the shells into large heaps or middens, where they were discarded.

Later settlement sites of enclosures and ringforts are positioned at a slight remove from the For inspection purposes only. shoreline. They reveal the imprintConsent of copyright settlement owner required in forthe any otherperiod use. after saints Palladius and

Patrick worked in Ireland in the fifth century to bring Christianity and to usher in a social transformation that was in keeping with change across Europe. Society in the early medieval period remained rural, and would have focused on crop husbandry and livestock, while the proximity to the sea that we see around the harbour would have dictated a continued relationship with fishing and coastal trade.

It is in the later medieval period that Sligo town emerges. A bridge existed in 1188 across the Garvogue river, establishing the importance attached to the settlement’s location on the main road north from Galway to Donegal. The word Sligo, Irish Sligeach meaing ‘shelly place’, tempts one to see the continued connection with shell-fishing. A description of the island at the mouth of the Garavogue or Sligo River in the year 1599 mentions that, ‘at every tide they may gather great store of oysters, cockles and mussels, all of which will be a great help with her Majesty's stores’.2 Certainly from the seventeenth century, the town relied heavily on fishing and oyster in particular.

2 Quoted from A. J. Went, ‘Historical notes on the oyster fisheries of Ireland’, Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy 62 (1961-63): 195-223, p. 213.

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Sligo is also linked intrinsically to the O’Conors during the later middle ages, and the settlement’s strategic importance, both as a safe haven from the Atlantic and as a communications hub was endorsed by the construction of a fortification, the arrival of the Domincans in1253, and also town defences. Sligo was pivotal to powers seeking to control Ulster. It presented the first significant harbour on the northwest coast south of Donegal, while routeways through the hills inland gave access across the Curlews to Boyle in north Roscommon, after which there were ample connections south and east to Roscommon town, Athlone and ultimately Dublin. These routes on land and sea were to be of critical importance to the Tudor administration in their attempts to ‘plant’ and subdue Ulster in the late 1500s, and conversely Sligo was a prize to be kept by the Irish. The presence of castle on the north shore of the harbour reveals something of the later medieval ownership. The star-shaped fort on Coney Island at the mouth of the harbour is a more telling statement of the manner in which the town and its settlement were protected in the seventeenth century.

With relative peace and prosperity in the period after Cromwell, Sligo was able to realize its trading potential in terms of Atlantic traffic and also fishing, particularly with oysters and mussels. Navigation into the harbour required the construction of various markers and buoys. The early nineteenth-century construction on Perch Rock, the Metal Man (1822), is an example of Victorian prosperity and confidence, with this popular figure pointing out the direction of safe passage across the straits into the harbour. The presence of private weirs and mills were increasingly seen as problematic to the growth of the town’s trade. A series of reports focus on such issues and ultimately reveal the frustration that the compact medieval town experienced as it tried to grow beyond its boundaries. The town remained focused and congested to the south of the current works area. By 1884, however, deep water berths had been constructed, while a railway established in 1898 connected Sligo to Ireland more generally. Further work in the 1930s looked at the old timber jetties in the deep water quay For inspection purposes only. area, and replaced them with aConsent 245-feet of copyright long owner concrete required for any wharf. other use. Additional growth occurred in

1936. As will be seen below, the geophysical survey conducted for the present project reveals crisp images of the navigation aid perches that line the approach channel. Built on mounds of stone, the perches are particularly apparent across the north side of the Middle Bank sand mass, where they and the training wall that was built after the perches, serve to constrain the bank from reforming. The dredging project that is currently proposed is the most recent in Sligo’s long history of port development, balancing the natural dynamic of a tidal haven with the need to maintain access from the sea.

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5.3.2 Placenames

Archaeological information is generally identified and located with reference to names, and consequently the townland is the principal basis for registration in both the archives of the National Museum of Ireland and in the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. It is the case that sometimes more local names are cited as well, particularly with reference to maritime information, which can derive from location at sea, removed from actual on the shore. The townlands and placenames/topographic features considered for the present study are indicated in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1 Townlands and placenames identified within the Sligo study area. Maps Townland Other placename Ordnance Survey Ballincar Cartron Marsh 6-inch series, Sligo Cartron Cummeen Strand Sheet 14 Cartron (Honoria Duff) Doonanpatrick Cummeen Dorrines Strand Finiskilin Garavogue River Inishmulclohy or Coneyisland Inner Harbour Knappagh More Middle Bank Rathedmond Oyster bed Rathquarter Seal Bank Rinn Srunamoyle Shannon Eighter Standalone Point Sligo Tully OS 6-inch series, Ballyweelin Bomore Race Course Sligo Sheet 8 Rosses Lower Deadman’s Point

Rosses Upper For inspection purposes only. Bay Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. The Metal man OS 6-inch series, Ardtermon Ardtermon Strand Sligo Sheet 7 Cloghcor Bird’s Rock Raghly Black rock Sea Charts Ardboline Altconeen Bay Black Rock Blind Rock Bomore Strand/Point Bungar Bank Cartron Marsh Cluckhorn Drumcliff Bar Drumcliff Spit Pool Doy Raghly Ledge

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Maps Townland Other placename Sligo Harbour 5.3.3 Topographic files, National Museum of Ireland

The National Museum of Ireland’s Topographical Files is the national archive of all known objects reported to the National Museum. These files relate primarily to artefacts but also include references to monuments and contain a unique archive of records of previous archaeological excavations. The Museum's files present an accurate catalogue of objects reported to that institution from 1928. There is a computerised database of finds from the 1980s onwards. The find-spots of artefacts can be an important indication of the archaeological potential of the related or surrounding area.

There are seven series of entries noted in the records of the National Museum of Ireland and these are listed in Appendix 5A. An old find provenanced as being ‘from Sligo’ represents an exotic figurine whose origins are not clear but may ultimately suggest an Iron Age piece from Iberia. A small amount of artefacts have been deposited in the Museum from the study area more recently, including two copper axes from Sligo (1959:65, 92), a chert flake (1934:4267) and three stones flakes (1936:1577-79) from Rosses Lower. These do not amount to observations of great significance but they do attest to evidence for prehistoric activity in the wider area. Small collections of material from Raghly suggest the presence of more substantial archaeological material, ranging from prehistoric times into the early medieval period (1905:5-9, 1934:4182-4225). There are no apparent records in the Museum for artefacts or features observed from within the proposed dredging or disposal areas.

5.3.4 Record of Monuments and Places3

For inspection purposes only. The Record of Monuments & PlacesConsent of copyright(RMP) owner is required a list for ofany otherarchaeological use. sites known to the

National Monuments Service with accompanying RMP Maps, based on OS 6-inch Sheets, which indicate the location of each recorded site. The RMP list is based on the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) files housed in the National Monuments Services offices. The SMR comprises lists with accompanying maps and files of all known or possible archaeological sites and monuments, predominately pre-1700 AD in date, for all counties. These lists were, in many cases, initially based on cartographic, documentary and aerial photographic sources. The SMR (as revised in the light of available fieldwork) forms the basis of the statutory RMP. The record is updated on a constant basis and focuses on monuments that predate 1700 AD. Buildings belonging to the seventeenth-century and later are not well represented in the archive, although they are considered as archaeological sites today.

A large number of archaeological sites exist in the landscape around Sligo, ranging in date from early prehistory to more recent times (Figure 5.3). For the purposes of the present

3 The RMP is maintained by the National Monument Section, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:20 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) study, those monuments that lie within c. 500m of the proposed dredging operations were considered as they are most likely to reflect the immediate maritime/foreshore context. In addition, sites on Oyster Island and Coney Island were included for the same reason, although they are at a further remove from the development areas. The selection presents a total of twenty-one known monuments, as listed and described in Appendix 5A. None of the sites occur within the areas proposed for dredging operations.

Sligo is known for its attention to the fishing industry during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, where particular emphasis was given to oyster fishing. The tradition continues into the present day with aquaculture. It is therefore of little surprise that there are five known shell midden sites observed on the foreshore around the harbour area (SL008- 099 and -101, and SL014-13, -56, -63). They are found widely distributed on Coney Island, Oyster Island, Ballincar, Finisklin and Cartron respectively, as shallow exposures of concentrated heaps of shells that have become buried over time by the natural accumulation of soils and sands. These sites do not refer to the recent exploitation of shell fish but rather to a much older exploitation that may extend back into prehistory, and reveal the presence of fishing-related activities along the foreshore, where presumably the early fishermen processed their harvest of shells from netting activity and possibly from work on boats and small craft. An intertidal survey of the harbour area conducted in 2010 identified a further midden site southwest of the present study area, on Doonan Patrick Island. The work also identified a probable fishtrap on the marshy ground in Cartron townland.4

Of the remaining known archaeological sites, the most numerous is a set of three enclosures and four ringforts, which are located overlooking the northern shoreline of the study area. Enclosures refer to circular earthworks whose remains are quite denuded but may originally have been more clearly defined as ringforts. These sites served as the household residences for the freemen of society in the early medieval period, and the more elaborate types, which are encircled by more than one bank and ditch, are believed to have been associated with For inspection purposes only. those of higher status. They areConsent a common of copyright ownersite requiredtype foracross any other Irelanduse. and reveal the presence of a well settled and populated rural landscape in the period c. 500-1000 AD, which exploited the marine environment just as it cultivated the soil and raised livestock. There are no early church sites within the immediate study area, but the well known island site of lies some kilometres to the north.

The only vestiges within the study area of the bustling activity associated with the late sixteenth century is a small star-shaped earthen fort on Coney Island (SL014-002), and a slightly later fortified house and associated wider settlement at Ballincar (SL014-005). The location of both sites close to the navigation channel reflect the obvious interest in using the resources that come in from the sea and in controlling them. The location of the star-shaped fort on Coney Island is positioned on its NE extremity, looking into the harbour rather than defending its external approaches. A slipway has been identified that may have been

4 Auriel Robinson, ‘Discovering the maritime archaeological heritage of Sligo Harbour and environs’, unpublished report submitted to the Heritage Council in 2010, grant reference R00697, pp 245, 38. Further reference is made in Appendix 1 of the present report.

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:20 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) associated with the fort.5 This would have permitted the occupants to have quick access to the deep water of Srunamoyle. Without doubt the fort would have served as part of the larger defences of the town in the seventeenth century, where most attention was given to the Green Fort, positioned to the north of the town on high ground overlooking the bridge.6

5.3.5 Intertidal Survey

An intertidal archaeological study of Sligo Harbour and its environs was completed in 2010, and the results of that useful work have been made available and included at the end of this report (Table A5.3).7 As noted above, Robinson has added a series of observations that provide additional sites, including a prehistoric midden on Doonan Patrick Island, a probable fish-trap in Cartron, and the early slipway on Coney Island. The study has also presented a large number of mainly nineteenth-century and early twentieth-century features that comprise of a series of formal bathing places, small jetties, and a number of abandoned boats and trawlers (Figure 5.4). None of the sites or features occur within the areas proposed for dredging operations.

5.3.6 National Inventory of Architectural Heritage

The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) is a county by county database that identifies, records and evaluates the post-1700 architectural heritage of Ireland, uniformly and consistently as an aid to the protection and conservation of the nation’s built heritage. The NIAH surveys provide the basis for the recommendations of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to the planning authorities for the inclusion of particular structures in their Record of Protected Structures (RPS).

For inspection purposes only. The series of structures recordedConsent for ofthe copyright present owner required project for any are other listed use. in Table A5.4 at the end of this report and are also summarised in Figure 5.4. It amounts to a small number of largely nineteenth- and early twentieth-century structures, most of which are domestic residences, but one is a warehouse site on the Sligo quays (Batchelors/Davitt’s warehouse), and all are at a remove from the development areas. The baseline information serves to further inform the more recent history and development of Sligo town and the extension of settlement along the coast, but none of this material will be impacted in any way by the proposed dredging works.

5 Robinson, ‘Discovering the maritime archaeological heritage of Sligo Harbour’, p. 31. 6 The Coney Island fort does not appear to have received scholarly attention, but the Green Fort is mentioned in Paul Kerrigan, Castles and fortifications in Ireland 1485-1945 (Collins Press, Cork 1975), pp 98, 102, 122-3. 7 Robinson, ‘Discovering the maritime archaeological heritage of Sligo Harbour’.

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5.3.7 Cartographic Sources

5.3.7.1 Sligo Sea charts and Admiralty charts showing Sligo Harbour and the wider area of the Bay reveal useful information concerning the depths and presence of navigation hazards, as well as naming places and locations of topographic interest, but they show little that is of archaeological interest. A series of charts was examined, including Chart 2767 Sligo and Killalla Bays, 1852-4, reprinted 1957, and Chart 2852 Approaches to Sligo and Sligo Harbour, 1998. One chart of Sligo and Ballysadare Harbours dated 1852 and corrected in 1859 does show the location of the wreck Lord Drogheda’s yacht, which was lost in 1859 while navigating into Sligo. The yacht ran aground on shallows to the west of Coney Island. The shallows had been marked by a buoy but that had fallen into disrepair and had not been in place for two years, to the detriment of the luckless yacht (Figure 5.5).

The Ordnance Survey First edition 6-inch series made in 1838 in turn reveals little information about the active water bodies within the harbour but does record a series of elements along the foreshore that reveal the landscape prior to the development of the quay walls in the 1840s (Figure 5.6). A series of marker buoys and posts define the natural course of the Garavogue river as it makes its way seawards, meandering through the mud flats of the inner harbour. This is in contrast to the defined linear navigation channel which is maintained today and is the subject of the present study, running northwest before enhancing the relatively straight channel alongside Ballincar and Ballyweelin townlands. The new dredging works will maintain the approach channel that has been in use for some considerable time, stopping short of Oyster Island to its East. The 1838 maps record the foreshore in considerable detail. Apart from the navigation aids there is an absence of obvious features such as fish traps and quays/jetties that attest to the active use of this area. Yet, as Robinson’s intertidal survey suggests below, there are features of archaeological interest that predate the 1800s and were not noted on the early maps. These include a fish- For inspection purposes only. trap and/or fording point across Consenttidal ofmudflats copyright owner in requiredShannon for any otherEighter use. townland, some 350m from the navigation channel, and a series of shell middens that complement the existing evidence of middens recorded in the SMR, attesting to the widespread use of the Bay over time to exploit oysters as well as periwinkle and other such shellfish.

5.3.7.2 Marine disposal area Sea charts examined for the marine disposal area included Chart 3471, Irlande Côte Nord- Ouest 1956, and US Chart 4722, Downpatrick Head to Horn Head, 3rd edition 1948. In no instance were any features observed that indicate the presence of shipwreck material within the disposal area.

5.3.8 Shipwreck Inventory

The Shipwreck Inventory in the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht’s archive is a list of recorded instances of wrecking since 1750. The details provided describe the type of vessel, the journey it foundered on, and information on the ultimate plight of the vessel and its crew, where possible. In describing the wrecking event, the records will locate the incident

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:21 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) in relation to the nearest headland or other topographic marker where known. This is not however a record of where the wreckage lies, since the historic records generally only deal with the vessel before it sank. Such finer details emerge from other sources, such as fishermens’ records of snag points and diver records of sites located underwater. These are included in the Inventory wherever possible but it is true to say that most entries lack this final level of data. Finally, it should be pointed out that while the Inventory provides a record of wrecking incidents since 1750, it does not claim to be a comprehensive record for earlier events, and therefore the medieval and prehistoric periods are not represented in the archive.

5.3.8.1 Sligo Thirty-five shipwreck incidents are listed in Table A5.6 at the end of this report for the Sligo Harbour and Bay area. A further twenty-four events are noted in the Historic Shipwreck Inventory but the information pertaining to their location is quite vague, registered broadly to ‘Sligo’, and nine more wrecking events are registered to Sligo Bay. Overall, the number of wrecking events is not significantly large when compared with other coastal stretches around Ireland, even allowing for the relatively short amount of coastline in the county.8 The known shipwreck location of the 1588 Spanish Armada vessels to the north of the study area on Streedagh Strand are without doubt the most discussed of the county’s wrecks. Leaving these aside, the wrecking events considered for the Sligo Harbour area retain a similar chronological spread to those recorded elsewhere. Nine relate to the eighteenth century. The earliest recorded wrecking took place in 1757, when the Sarah was sailing to the Virgin Islands from Liverpool and was driven ashore in Sligo Bay during foul weather and was damaged considerably. The ship Brothers had almost made port, sailing from New York in 1788 when she struck on Sligo Bar and was lost. Wreckage because of underwater obstructions led inevitably to the formalization of safe navigation channels, and the figurative navigation beacon on Perch Rock, known as the Metal Man and cast in 1819, has his hand pointing to the safe passage for shipping as they enter and leave the harbour. The largest For inspection purposes only. number of wrecking events belongsConsent however of copyright owner to therequired nineteenth for any other use. century, where a total of forty- two events are recorded. To encounter foul weather and storms at sea continued to prove very hazardous, but the large numbers also attest to the growth in maritime traffic associated with the burgeoning economies of the industrial age. This in turn presented the opportunities to invest in shore-based infrastructures, and it is in the 1830s and ‘40s that we see the development of the quayside at Sligo and their extension seawards, and also the improvement to the pier at Raghly.

There are two known instances of wrecking on the Bungar Bank, and both date to 1859. An Austrian brig, the Naslieduk was carrying a cargo of maize when she wrecked, while Lord Drogheda’s yacht, the Fancy, ran aground on shallows just off Coney Island where a navigation buoy had fallen into disrepair. The site of the Fancy is plotted on an 1859 chart but it is not plotted on current charts. The specific location of the Naslieduk is not known. In this, the Austrian brig shares much in common with the majority of the recorded

8 The East coast area has considerable numbers of wrecks clustered around the principal coastal towns; see Karl Brady, Shipwreck inventory of Ireland. Louth, Meath, Dublin and Wicklow (Dublin, Stationary Office, no date).

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:21 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) shipwrecking, but eight (including the Fancy) have been accurately positioned (Figure 5.4). They include the ruined remnants of the two lighters Gartnasheerie and Molbec, which were in service in the early twentieth century but are now pulled ashore onto the mudflats. The majority of such known shipwreck site locations refer to twentieth-century wrecks, and none of shipwrecks are observed within the works area.

5.3.8.2 Marine disposal area There are no known shipwreck sites located within the marine disposal area, but three wrecksites are recorded some distance away, the nearest being the wreck of the Ashcrest located some 575m SW of the disposal area (Figure 5.7). The Ashcrest was torpedoed in 1940, as was the Hans Broge in 1917 (Figure 5.8), wrecking some 12km away from the disposal area. The third vessel is that of a modern trawler, the Lady Christine, which was lost in 2003 and lies c. 3.8km from the disposal area.

5.3.9 Licensed archaeological work

The Excavations Bulletin publishes annual summary accounts of licensed archaeological excavations undertaken throughout Ireland, which is currently published up to and including 2007.9 Summaries may also be submitted for inter-tidal survey, underwater assessments, and the archaeological monitoring of marine dredging works (although the former two categories are not required to be submitted for publication in the Bulletin). The entries relating to the townlands surrounding Sligo Harbour are presented in Table A5.7 at the end of this report and Figure 5.4. There have been thirty-two events recorded. Fourteen of these projects revealed nothing of archaeological significance. Of the remaining licenses, three were granted for work within or on the site of known archaeological monuments. Many of the rest revealed small-scale features such a burned spreads or ditch features, and do not contribute additional relevant information to the current study. A small series of work has For inspection purposes only. taken place in Sligo town alongConsent the river of copyright bank owner and required quaysides for any other use. area, revealing a range of pre- existing riverside features. Only three projects are reported in relation to marine activity, excluding work on the Garvogue river itself. One was for a monitoring project associated with the redevelopment of Raghly pier (Licence 07E0969). Another was for monitoring work associated with the laying of a cable on Coney Island (no license number reported). The third relates to the installation of a new timber jetty within Sligo Port, which required dredging to a depth of 2.5m. A former timber pile was observed (08D079).

5.3.10 Conclusion

Maritime activity within Sligo Harbour is documented from early prehistoric times. The study of the wider area indicates a range of sites and features that highlight an active awareness of the importance of navigation into and out of the town, as a principal port on Ireland’s northwest coast. The presence of prehistoric midden sites reveals foreshore activity.

9 Isabel Bennett (ed.) Excavations Bulletin: summary accounts of archaeological excavations in Ireland, (Bray, Wordwell).

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Reference to known shipwrecking events highlights the Bungar Bank as a location where wreckage debris can be expected to be observed, while the attention paid to establishing safe access through the shallows of the inner harbour suggests an awareness of hazardous access into Sligo. So too does the presence of twentieth-century wrecks on the mudflats. While no archaeological material has occurred within the locations of proposed dredging, there is an inherent potential for new archaeology to be revealed during capital dredging projects along the approach channel to the port and on Bungar Bank. The potential was confirmed within Sligo Port with the observation of a timber pile associated with the work to insert a timber jetty in 2008. In such instances, there is a need for archaeological resolution strategies, to mitigate the possibility for new discoveries.

The presence of three known wreck sites in proximity to the marine disposal area highlights the need to assess the disposal area more fully for the presence of previously unrecorded wreckage.

5.4 ARCHITECTURAL SITE ASSESSMENT

A desktop review of existing maps and historic photographs was supported by a series of site visits in May 2011 in the area around the harbour and around the shore at Rosses Point near both Coney Island and Oyster Island, to see if any structures there could be affected by the proposed dredging works.10 There are no protected structures in the area of proposed development, and no structures of architectural heritage merit were observed in the vicinity of the site where excavation work and dredging would take place. It can only be concluded that work should be allowed to continue without any further investigation in relation to architectural heritage or conservation proposals.

5.5 MARINE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY

For inspection purposes only. A marine geophysical survey wasConsent commissioned of copyright owner required to contribute for any other use. a further level of insight prior to the commencement of the dredging and marine disposal operations. Such surveys operate on the basis of emitting sonic pulses through the water column to detect material and features on and under the seabed. It is usual to deploy a series of devices because each one is designed to detect particular materials. The present project used two standard devices for archaeological work: side-scan sonar and magnetometer, and was in compliance with the requirements set by the DoEHLG for marine geophysical survey for archaeological purposes. The survey was conducted along the approach channel, on Bungar Bank, and at the marine disposal area. The work was conducted by Irish Hydrodata Ltd in April 2011, under licence 11R010. The primary data and associated mapping were examined by ADCO and the results are presented below. Irish Hydrodata’s own report is included as Appendix 5C of this Report.

Side-scan sonar captures data to construct an image of the seabed surface over the area it operates. It is an excellent device for mapping the seabed and for detecting hard anomalies, such as those of stone and metal, and also of hard wood. It cannot detect material that is

10 A comprehensive statement of the architectural heritage assessment is presented as Appendix 5C of the Report.

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:21 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) buried, and it is difficult to observe soft woods because the sonic pulse passes through such material without registering a difference with the ambient water. Magnetometers are used to detect ferrous metal. In this they can complement the sonar by clarifying whether a sonar contact contains significant metal – and is therefore manmade. Magnetometers also detect anomalies below the seabed surface, and therefore can detect buried material. However, unlike the sonar devices, magnetometers gather their information by emitting pulses directly underneath; they cannot sweep the seabed from one side to the other as sonar does, and consequently are limited to a vertical and near-vertical range of detection. The magnetometer needs to pass more or less directly overhead of an anomaly to detect it.

5.5.1 Nature of record The record is comprehensive. Side-scan sonar and magnetometer survey was conducted over the survey areas. The following equipment was used: • L³-Klein System 3000 simultaneous dual frequency digital side-scan sonar system. • Geometrics G882 marine magnetometer (caesium)

5.5.2 Harbour

5.5.2.1 Survey Grid The narrowness of the survey area resulted in two survey lines of data being acquired, extending from the quays in Sligo Port to a point off the north side of Oyster Island (Figure 5.9). The lines were acquired in opposite directions to each other. Towards the western extent of the survey area where the channel broadens sufficiently, the lines were spaced 90m apart, but were generally much closer to each other because of the confined nature of the approach channel, and in places overlapped. Each line was set at a range of 75m. The survey has provided ample overlap and the ability to view the same areas of seabed from opposed directions.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

5.5.2.2 Side-scan Sonar Survey The data is generally very well defined. The bed area varies in consistency along the surveyed route (Figure 5.10). There is a confused pattern of folded siltation at the quays area, which gives way to a compacted hard bottom to the north as the approach channel passes by Cartron and Ballincar townlands. The bed then retains greater amounts of siltation as one proceeds through the harbour westwards, with patches of regular sand ripples evident south of Rosses Upper.

The primary observations relate to the series of navigation aids, perches and markers that define either side of the approach channel (a detailed list of side-scan sonar [ss] anomalies is presented in Appendix 5C; see also Figure 5.13 - Figure 5.16). Those on the West and South side of the channel survive as well-constructed circular mounds of foundation stones, often measuring 10-12m in diameter and rising c. 3m in height (Figure 5.11). Lengths of cable or chain are sometime apparent down one side. A training wall has been constructed to link the perches on the south side of the approach channel as it crosses Middle Bank. The sonar data clearly shows that building of the perches predates the training wall, and that the wall is fractured in places. Anomaly ss5 represents the perch that defines the terminus of the

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:21 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) training wall. A noticeable scour pocket has developed on the western or seaward side of the perch, indicative of the exposed nature of the harbour area in this location. The navigation aids on the North and East side of the channel are not as well defined but are nevertheless clearly visible.

There are few indications of anomalies that cannot be explained in terms of the channel markers. A series of anomalies were observed in this regard (Appendix 5C). All but one occur as small-scale linear or irregularly-shaped features that are observed on the bed of the approach channel, and may result from casual discard and are probably best described as debris. In one instance however (ss25) the anomaly may be indicative of a more significant feature. It survives as a c. 16m long negative anomaly that is long and narrow, almost boat- shaped in form with a defined bow section and a stern section (Figure 5.12). It is 3.1m wide at its centre. The anomaly is located at a point where the Cartron marsh enters the river. A spread of stonework is evident on one side, while the anomaly itself is situated in silt. This suggests the possible presence of a small quay area that is now inundated. The stonework may also retain the base of a former navigation marker. It is some 70m from the recorded location of the Gartsheerie that is pulled ashore. The magnetometer survey detected elevated readings adjacent to the sonar anomaly, indicating the presence of a substantive metal feature. The location is positioned adjacent to the proposed dredging area, and should be assessed further for its archaeological potential.

Table 5.2 Side-scan sonar anomalies identified within the harbour area*

Reference Description Archaeological Potential ss25 Boat-shaped negative anomaly Unclear, possibly high measuring 16m long by 3.1m wide in the

middle, this feature For has inspection what purposes appears only. to Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. be a defined bow and stern, and rests in an area of silt directly against a stone area that appears to be set, measuring 8m by 7m in size. Corresponds to mg9. However the data presents it as a negative image with no internal features that one can expect of actual wreck sites. It remains unclear what this image is. *Anomalies listed cannot be explained as modern features associated with the Port or as most likely casual debris (for further information see detailed description, Appendix 5C).

5.5.2.3 Magnetometer Survey The magnetometer survey was conducted in tandem with the side-scan sonar survey. Overall, the survey has highlighted little evidence of natural background variation so that any fluctuations observed most probably derive from human activity (a detailed list of magnetometer [mg] anomalies is presented in Appendix 5C; see also Figure 5.13 - Figure 5.16). As can be expected, the survey conducted within the active port area produced

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:21 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) excessively high levels of magnetic readings, reflecting the presence of working boats and other devices. Elsewhere, the survey revealed a complementary sequence of localised anomalies that correspond to the locations of the navigations aids. In a small number of instances there was also a localised variation where no buoys or other navigation aids can be identified. In those instances, the magnetic anomaly must derive from another metallic source. Some of these locations correspond with sonar anomalies, indicating that the anomaly lies exposed on the channel bed. In those instances where the magnetic anomaly does not correspond with sonar data, it suggests that the magnetic feature is either very small in scale and/or is buried. The results are presented in Table 5.3.

Table 5.3 Magnetometer anomalies identified within the harbour area*

Reference Description Archaeological Potential mg9 Extended intense fluctuation in magnetic Unknown, possibly high field over 28m-long area (recorded reference point refers to the centre of the highest readings). This anomaly is within 20m of the centrepoint of ss25 and logically refers to the same feature. * Anomalies listed cannot be explained as modern features associated with the Port (for further information see detailed description, Appendix 5C).

5.5.3 Marine Disposal Area

5.5.3.1 Survey Grid A 1km² grid was surveyed by running lines E-W in opposite directions, achieving a standard zig-zag pattern of data acquisition. ForLines inspection spacing purposes only. was set at 45m with range at 75m, Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. ensuring ample overlap. Because of the depth of the seabed in this location (approx. 90m), particular set-up was required to ensure that the sonar towfish would be sufficiently weighted. As indicated on Figure 5.17, the survey lines had to take account of sea-swell, but the close spacing of the tracklines ensured that the full survey area was covered adequately.

5.5.3.2 Side-scan Sonar Survey The underwater sea state intruded into the survey data, but the level of overlap in the survey tracklines accounted for the intrusion. The seabed has a sandy/silty surface, with some sand ripples noticeable (Figure 5.18).

Only a small number of anomalies were identified (a detailed list of side-scan sonar [ss] anomalies is presented in Appendix 5C; see also Figure 5.19). The majority are probably natural features and are considered as such. Two anomalies may represent manmade remains. Anomaly ss307 is a well-defined isolated short linear object occurring in a sandy area; it appears to be a piece of debris. Anomaly ss300 is poorly defined at the very north end of the survey area, c. 100m north of and outside the defined disposal area. It is possible to discern a boat-shaped profile, measuring 24.9m long x 5.9m wide. The anomaly is not clearly visible, and it was not detected on the other survey lines, but it represents the only

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:21 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(v) anomaly detected in the marine disposal area data that suggests the possible presence of in situ wreckage debris. The magnetometer data does not indicate an anomaly, but it passed to the south and may not have been able to detect the feature at that distance. Anomaly ss300 lies outside the defined limits of the disposal area and will therefore not be impacted on.

Table 5.4 Side-scan sonar anomalies identified on marine disposal area survey*

Reference Description Archaeological Potential ss300 A boat-shaped anomaly measuring Unclear, possibly high 24.9m long x 5.9m wide, located c. 100m north of disposal area. The data trace shows a principal area of anomaly on one side, with a less-clearly defined tapering shape on the other.

*Anomalies listed cannot be explained as modern features or as most likely casual debris (for further information see detailed description, Appendix 5C).

5.5.3.3 Magnetometer Survey The magnetometer survey was conducted in tandem with the side-scan sonar survey. It indicates a natural variation within the seabed deposits but few localized fluctuations suggestive of manmade remains. Three anomalies in total were observed, each representing very small-scale and localized fluctuations.

5.5.4 Conclusion For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. The area surveyed included the development areas and the channel to the north of the jetties. Side-scan sonar and magnetometer surveys were conducted within the specifications for marine geophysical surveys as defined by the DoA,H&G. The survey revealed the navigation aids that line the approach channel to the Port. A single possible feature of archaeological interest was observed within the harbour area, close to Cartron marsh, which may represent the presence of a submerged iron wreck (anomaly ss25/mg9). However the details are not entirely clear. A series of other anomalies were highlighted throughout the areas surveyed. Correspondences of sonar contacts with magnetometer contacts indicates metallic remains on the surface, while magnetometer targets in isolation indicate that there is material buried beneath the covering sands. A single target identified adjacent to and outside the marine disposal area may indicate the presence of a previously unrecorded feature (ss300), but the nature is the data is not entirely clear. As it lies c. 100m outside the disposal area, it will not be impacted upon.

The assessment and surveys conducted for the present report are very comprehensive, and have not identified material of archaeological significance within any of the project impact areas. There is no archaeological reason why the dredging works proposed should not proceed.

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5.6 PREDICTED IMPACTS11 To achieve the required dredging design, the alignment of the proposed dredge channel will follow very closely the alignment of the existing channel. The proposed channel depth will be to -3.0m CD. The proposed channel bottom width with be 50m with channel side slopes of 1 in 7. Of the 250,000m³ of material that it is proposed to dredge, 55% lies in the easterly 1500m of the channel nearest the town quays, while the bulk of the remaining 45% lies in the westerly length of channel, which is approximately 2,200m long, from No 14 buoy to Ballyweelin Point. The specific type of dredger to be used will not be known until a contractor is appointed, but it is envisaged that either a suction dredger or a backhoe dredger will be employed for the work. It is anticipated that dredging will proceed in an upstream direction, and that dredging will be limited to the upper half of the tidal cycle.

The dredged material will be transported to the disposal area, where it is proposed to release between 500m³ and 1,050m³ per dredging cycle. Modelling of the dispersion of the sediment at the disposal area indicates that most of the deposited material will remain close to the disposal site, with a small amount material migrating towards the east under the influence of tidal action. The impact of the dumped sediments settling on the sea bed around the dump site is not considered to be significant.

The dredging represents a direct impact on the seabed, and archaeological monitoring of the dredging operation is recommended, to ensure the recovery of archaeological material that may be recovered during the excavation works.

5.7 RECOMMENDATIONS

5.7.1 Pre-construction Measures The need for further architectural heritage assessment for the dredging project is not For inspection purposes only. necessary as there will be no impactConsent ofon copyright features owner required of architectural for any other use. interest.

5.7.2 Construction Phase Measures Dredging works will be take place as the primary activity of the present development. Archaeological monitoring, licensed to the DoA,H&G is recommended during all works where foreshore or seabed deposits will undergo removal. A suitably qualified competent maritime archaeologist with experience in riverine/marine dredging environments should undertake the archaeological monitoring. The archaeological monitoring should be undertaken with the proviso for full excavation of any archaeologically significant material uncovered as part of the operation. Licence processing takes a minimum of three working weeks to be processed by the Department, and archaeologists cannot present on site before the licence is granted.

5.7.3 Archaeological/Cultural Heritage Management

• Retaining an Archaeologist: a competent maritime archaeologist should be retained for the duration of the relevant works. The time scale for the construction phase should be

11 Based on information from Attachment B.3 and Appendix F.1(i).

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made available to the archaeologist, with information on where and when ground disturbances and dredging will take place.

• Sufficient notice: It is essential for the developer to give sufficient notice to the archaeologist/s in advance of the construction works commencing. This will allow for prompt arrival on site to monitor the ground disturbances. As often happens, intervals may occur during the construction phase. In this case, it is also necessary to inform the archaeologist/s as to when ground disturbance works will recommence.

• Discovery of Archaeological Material: In the event of archaeological features or material being uncovered during the construction phase, it is crucial that any machine work cease in the immediate area to allow the archaeologist/s to inspect any such material.

• Archaeological Material: If the presence of archaeologically significant material is established, full archaeological recording of such material is recommended. If it is not possible for the construction works to avoid the material, full excavation would be recommended. The extent and duration of excavation would be a matter for discussion between the client and the licensing authorities.

• Archaeological Team: It is recommended that the core of a suitable archaeological team be on standby to deal with any such rescue excavation. This would be complemented in the event of a full excavation.

• Archaeological Dive Team: It is recommended that an archaeological dive team be on standby to deal with any underwater rescue excavation. This team will carry the necessary commercial dive insurance, be fully certified to HSE/ HSA requirements, and will conduct its work according to Safety in Industry (Diving Operations) Regulations 1981, SI 422, and 2010 SI (Draft), HSA Diving Standards 2010. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

• Secure wet storage facilities should be provided for the storage of archaeological material derived from the marine environment within the project works compound.

• Secure site offices and facilities should be provided on or near those sites where excavation is required.

• Fencing/buoying of any such areas would be necessary once discovered and during excavation.

• Adequate funds to cover excavation, post-excavation analysis, and any testing or conservation work required should be made available.

• Spoil should not be dumped on any of the selected sites or their environs.

Recommendations are subject to the approval of The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

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5.8 FIGURES

Extract from Admiralty Chart 2852 © Crown Copyright UKHO. Not for navigational use

Figure 5.1: Admiralty Chart showing Harbour area and proposed dredging works

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. 516909,873598 517910,873581

516894,872597 517894,872580

Figure 5.2: Admiralty Chart showing proposed marine disposal site.

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Figure 5.3: Distribution of RMP sites in Harbour area. © Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence number 2010/20 CCMA/ Sligo County Council

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5.4: Distribution of NIAH sites in Harbour area.

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Figure 5.5: Extract from 1859 sea chart showing the location of the Fancy. Source: DoEHLG. Note: the wrecksite location is marked by a simple cross NW of Altconeen.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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Figure 5.6: Extracts from OS First Edition 1838 Sheet 14 and Third Edition For inspection purposes only. - the contrasting topographies ofConsent the ofinner copyright harbour owner required at Finisklinfor any other use.

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Figure 5.7: Map of known wrecksites in the vicinity of the marine disposal site.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5.8: The Hans Broge, before she wrecked, c. 1907. Source: www.wrecksite.eu

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Figure 5.9: Marine geophysical survey tracklines within the Harbour area.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Outer harbour, S of Rosses Approach channel, S Approach channel at of Ballincar deepwater berths, indicating a timber pile jetty Figure 5.10: Seabed images from the sonar data, Harbour area.

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For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Figure 5.11: Sonar trace showing the terminal perch, ss5. Note the scour pocket that is developing at the seaward end of the perch. It is also possible to observe that the training wall is constructed on top of the pre-existing perch foundation.

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Figure 5.12: Sonar trace showing anomaly ss25 within its local context. North is to the bottom of the image. The anomaly occurs as a tapering linear black feature that lies against a stony shoreline. ForThe inspection stones purposes appear only. to be constructed intentionally to Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. create a right-angled plan, and there is the suggestion of some mounding of stone to the left. This complex of features may represent a former landing area on the east bank of the river, close to Cartron marsh.

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Figure 5.13: Distribution of marine geophysical anomalies observed within the Harbour area.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5.14: Distribution of marine geophysical anomalies observed within the Harbour area, East side.

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Figure 5.15: Distribution of marine geophysical anomalies observed within the Harbour area, central zone.

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Figure 5.16: Distribution of marine geophysical anomalies observed within the Harbour area, West side.

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For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5.17: Marine geophysical survey tracklines at the marine disposal site.

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Figure 5.18: Sonar trace showing nature of seabed imaged at the marine disposal site. The sandy seabed with minor fluctuations is shown on the left side of the image. The dark mottled space in the right side of the image refers to the water column through which the sonar device is being towed, and the linear yellow line on the far right side is the sonar trackline.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5.19: Distribution of marine geophysical anomalies observed at the marine disposal site.

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App APPENDIX 5A: KNOWN ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGEApplicatio Licence Sea at Dumping RECORDS FOR THE Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix SLIGO HARBOUR AND MARINE DISPOSAL AREAS

( v )

53 0 5-32 Table A5-1 Topographical Files, National Museum of Ireland (NMI) This source refers to objects found and reported to the NMI, which are registered geographically according to townland. By default they refer mostly to terrestrial observations and do not often include marine-based records unless they can be associated with an adjacent townland on the foreshore.

Reference Classification Townland Further notes Easting Northing Distance to No. development None Bronze figurine, foreign import ‘from Sligo’ Acquired in 1844 as n/a n/a n/a recorded part of Major Sirrr’s collection: Paul Jacobsthal, ‘An Iberian Bronze Found at Sligo’, JRSAI 8 (1938): 51-54. 1959:65, 92 Two copper axeheads Sligo n/a n/a n/a 2006 :36-55 A collection of ceramic, chert, stone, iron, glass, lead Rathquarter Green Fort is the 17th n/a n/a n/a from Greenfort century earthwork For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for anydefence other use. built on high ground north of the town (Kerrigan 1995, 98). 1934:4267 Chert scraper Rosses Lower Found at Rosses Point n/a n/a n/a 1936:1577-79 3 stone flakes Rosses Lower Found at Rosses Point n/a n/a n/a 1905:5-9 Stone disc, flint tool, chert scraper, flint flake, chert Raghly n/a n/a n/a A flake F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Classification Townland Further notes Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix No. development 1934:4182- A collection of stone, quartz objects, flint scrapers Raghly n/a n/a n/a ( v )

53 0 5-33 4225 and arrowhead (:4211), chert objects, a bronze pin (:4216), 3 pottery fragments, and various animal bone remains.

Table A5-2 Register of Monuments and Places Selection of the sites to include from the Register of Monuments and Places (RMP) at the DoEHLG is restricted to those known monuments within c. 500m of the dredge areas. Sites at a further remove are included in the Oyster Island/Coney Island area to provide some further indication of the distance of the proposed works from locations of known archaeological importance.

RMP No Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to development SL008-130 Ringfort Ballincar Flat topped roughly circular mound which was embanked 166690 339340 360m originally, measuring c. 22m in diameter. Joyce Raftery, ‘Preliminary report on sites of archaeological interest in Co. Sligo’ (1974). SL014- Fortified House Ballincar Two-storeyed three-bayed T-shaped structure, in ruinous 166710 339090 140m 05001 condition, built For inspectionof mortared purposes only. random-coursed limestone Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. masonry. Known as Ballincar Castle or Caislean Bhaile an Charta, this is an early 17th-century strong house, traditionally associated with the O’Harts. SL014- Earthworks, Ballincar Aerial photograph OS 1 3303-4, roll 158, print 31 shows 166768 339098 160m 05002 possible the site of Ballincar Castle within a series of linear boundaries indicative of a wider settled area and field A system associated with the Castle and aligned roughly N- F.1(v ppendix S, and predating the modern field boundaries which are aligned NE/SW. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo RMP No Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development SL014- Barrow, Ballincar Located on a natural rise, the site is defined as a circular 166890 339110 260m ( v )

53 0 5-34 05003 unclassified enclosure 20.5m in diameter. SL014- Ringfort Ballincar No record seen. 166830 339050 170m 05004 SL014- Enclosure Ballincar Aerial Photograph OS 1 3303-4, roll 158, print 30 shows a 166930 338910 100m 07001 barely visible five-sided enclosure measuring 17m in diameter, which may be the remains of a small star-shaped fort, but the descriptions are not clear. SL014- Field system Ballincar Aerial Photograph OS 1 3303-4, roll 158, print 30 shows an 167020 338970 180m 07002 expanse of gently curving cultivation furrows representing at least two separate fields underlying the modern field boundaries. SL014- Cultivation ridges Ballincar Aerial Photograph OS 1 3303-4, roll 158, print 30 shows an 167020 338970 180m 07003 expanse of gently curving cultivation furrows representing at least two separate fields underlying the modern field boundaries. SL014-09 Ringfort Ballincar An approximately circular platform measuring 20-24m in 167770 338590 420m

diameter indicate For inspection the presence purposes only. of a small enclosure that is Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. visible on the Ordnance Survey maps but has been since ploughed out. SL014-13 Midden Ballincar A 2.1m long and 20cm thick deposit of oyster shells flanked 168040 338200 450m by sandy soil above and below was observed on an eroded claiff face, 2m above the HWM. SL008-119 Enclosure Ballyweelin Bivallate ringfort on high ground with good views and in fair 165580 339840 460m A

condition. The inner enclosure measures 35-38m in F.1(v ppendix diameter and is raised 1.7m above surrounding landscape. The interior is slightly dished but has no internal features. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo RMP No Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development Aerial photograph shows the main inner enclosure with a ( v )

53 0 5-35 distinctive entrance feature on the east side (OS1 3306-5). The larger outer enclosure is some 18m from the inner enclosure and extends beneath later field boundaries. Land drainage works were scheduled in the vicinity of the fort in 1985 but the ringfort was excluded from same. SL014-63 Midden Cartron Some shell fragments were observed intermittently along a 168460 337160 300m cliff edge of a low vertical cliff rising 4-5m above the beach as part of the headland. Adjacent works may have infilled the area. SL008-129 Ringfort Cregg Dún Iarainn is a raised circular enclosure located on a 166600 339350 320m ridge close to the channel of the Drumcliff River. The site reaches c. 2.78m above ground and has a dished interior with an entrance on the west side. E O’Flanagan, ‘Letters containing information relative to the antiquities of the county of Sligo collected during progress of the Ordnance Survey in 1836’, pp108-9, 133.

SL014-56 Midden Finisklin Observed previously, For inspection purposesthe only.site was later noted to be 167430 337160 530m Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. occupied by the city dump and was not visible. SL008-099 Midden Inishmulclohy Identified as a ‘raised oyster bed’, the site is one of two 162290 339400 1.4km or Coney such middens on the NE corner of Coney Island. Island Published, in F. M. Synge, ‘Coastal evolution’, in The quaternary history of Ireland (London 1985), 115-131. The site has not been visited by the DoEHLG. A

SL014-001 16th/17-century Inishmulclohy Located in area of rough undulating ground and sand 161960 338770 1.9km F.1(v ppendix House or Coney dunes. Three-storeyed three-bay house with stepped Island entrance on the first floor, E side. Attic rooms, slated gable- 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo RMP No Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development end, chimneys survive. The portico and remains of a ( v )

53 0 5-36 fanlight window may suggest 18th century construction. Maurice Craig and William Garner, ‘Preliminary report on buildings and sites of historic interest in Co. Sligo’, An Foras Forbatha, 1973. SL014-002 Star-shaped fort Inishmulclohy Located on the NE extremity of Coney Island on top of a 162457 339198 1.4km or Coney natural knoll with excellent views of the N part of Sligo Bay Island and the channel. A square enclosure measures 18m internally and has diamond-shaped corner bastions, 9m long and 4m wide. A demi-bastion is visible along the N side, some 7.5m away from the main rampart. An outer enclosure also exists as an outer defence, consisting of an earth-and-stone bank and external fosse that envelopes the landward side of the site. (Aerial Photographs by M Gibbons.) SL008-100 Barrow mound, Oyster Island Identification by M Timoney 28/6/1989. The site has not 163160 339360 700m possible been visited by the DoEHLG.

SL008-101 Midden Oyster Island The site has notFor inspection been visitedpurposes only. by the DoEHLG. 162780 339380 1km Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. SL008-195 Lime Kiln Oyster Island Also registered in the NIAH, see number 32304001 below. 162983 339404 830m SL008-174 Enclosure, possible Rosses Upper The site was captured in an aerial photograph, indicating a 163000 339830 830m circular area defined by an outer ditch (OS 3 0337-8). When inspected in 1994, the site had been levelled and was barely discernible as a circular area defined by a shallow depression or possible ditch and outer bank, A

measuring c. 16m in diameter. F.1(v ppendix

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App Table A5-3 2010 Intertidal Survey Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix Non-shipwreck sites observed in Auriel Robinson’s 2010 intertidal survey of Sligo Harbour adjacent to the development area. Classification Location Description Easting Northing Distance ( v ) 53 0 5-37 from development Bathing House Ballincar Remains of a diving board were observed as the only visible indication of 167997 338275 450m E 19th-20th century bathing place. Cottage Ballincar Ruined building located immediately above the HWM. 167405 338610 210m E Jetty Ballincar A bathing house is marked in this location on the OS first edition map. A 168047 338127 420m E row of coarse boulders was observed in fieldwork, along with a wooden mooring pist. Jetty/Pier Ballincar Partial remains of linear jetty feature comprised of coarse stone 167283 338687 84m NE construction and measuring 5m long by 1m wide. Jetty/Slip Ballincar Linear jetty extending from the foreshore to the LWM, comprised of two 167619 338434 212m E rows of coarse stone construction, and measuring 10m long by 2m wide, Bathing Ballyweelin Possible bathing house structure, ruined. 164300 339800 c. 300m N house/cottage Boathouse/slipway, Ballyweelin Ruined complex probably associated with former coastguard station. 164422 339675 c. 200m N possible cottage For inspection purposes only. Jetty/Pier Ballyweelin Jetty extending from theConsent foreshore of copyright toowner the required LWM, for any measuring other use. 10m long by 165039 339418 c. 150m N 2m wide, Mill Cregg OS first edition map records Ballincar Mill in this location, with a mill race 166500 339200 90 N and mill port lodge. Close to Ballincar Castle. Part of the mill boundary wall remains. Sea bath Finisklin Gibraltar Point sea bathing area, constructed in the early 20th century, 166701 336905 1.2km W built in imitation of the fortress on the Rock of Gibralter, now abandoned A and collapsed. F.1(v ppendix Slipway/boat Inishmlclohy, Of coarse boulder construction comprising two rows of large boulders 162303 339105 c. 1.6km W launch/harbour Coney Island measuring 44m long and 4m wide, facing NE and extending inshore to 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Classification Location Description Easting Northing Distance endix F.1 endix from development ( v )

53 0 5-38 below the earthen bank that defines the star-shaped fort complex. Empties into ‘Sru na Moyle’ channel, between Coney Island and Oyster Island, reknowned for strong currents. It is possible that this feature was a landing area associated with the 17th-century fort. Slipway/Pier Inishmlclohy, Of coarse stone construction with some mortar exposed, it measures 47m 162461 339257 c. 1.5km W Coney Island long and 2.2m wide, narrowing in width towards the LWM. An iron boat ring remains in situ, and a step is cut into the pier 2.2m from the HWM. Probably of 19th century construction. Empties into ‘Sru na Moyle’ channel, between Coney Island and Oyster Island, reknowned for strong currents. Aquaculture grids Inner Two rows of wooden platforms sitting on tyres with rusted trestles, SW of 165322.2 338689.2 650m S of Harbour Old Seal Bank. 54.17.75N 08.32.30W. 66 83 Channel marker Inner A pile of stone and boulder marks the former foundation that held a 164748.9 338934.8 c. 250m S of Harbour channel marker in place, SW of Old Seal Bank. 54.17.88N 08.32.53W. 67 41 Oyster bed Oyster Island Located SE of Oyster Island on a shallow known as Yellow Bank, the 163264.8 339261.8 700m W depth at lowest tides is 0.5m. A 3.7m long by 2.1m wide and 40cm high 61 82

stone, semi-circular in shaped For wasinspection observed purposes only. surrounded by oyster shells, Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. which may have served as a fish trap. 54.18.05N 08.33.90W Fording point/fish trap Shannon Marked as a fording point on OS 1903 map, the site consists of a half- 168202 337798 350m E Eighter moon/crescent shaped alignment of stones, measuring c. 58m long and 2m wide, with a 6m wide gap at its centre. The stonework is coarse in nature, and connects a section of the spit of Standalone Island with the mainland. A

F.1(v ppendix

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App Table A5-4 National Inventory of Architectural Heritage Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix Based on entries provided online at

( v ) 53 0 5-39 Reg. No. Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to development 3232205 Batcherlors/Davitts Finisklin Warehouse rated to be of national interest. Attached seven 168360 336773 400m by four-bay four-storey reinforced-concrete flat-roofed former Maize Mill and Grain Silo, built 1905. Now used as warehouse for food distribution company. Located on Deep Water Berths Road in Sligo Town. An innovative construction system developed by François Hennebique (1842 - 1921) in 1892 was used in the design of this warehouse.The builiding is one of the earliest surviving examples of the Hennebique system in the island of Ireland. Advanced construction techniques are masked by rendered details, producing a strikingly Modern geometric design, a distinctive feature in the landscape of Sligo Quays. 32304010 Presbytery/parochial/ Rosses Rated as of local interest. Detached three-bay two-storey 163991 339962 400m curate's house Upper rendered parochial house, built in 1903. Breakfront to west with two-storey For canted inspection purposesbay, only.lean-to glass porch in angle Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. between breakfront and south elevation, lean-to conservatory to west elevation, two-storey return attached to two-storey outbuilding to rear. Hipped artificial slate roof, crested clay ridge tiles, painted smooth-rendered stepped and corbelled chimneystacks, moulded cast-iron gutters on moulded eaves cornice. This parochial house which was originally part of the A

Middleton Estate, serves the Catholic Church to the north. In F.1(v ppendix spite of some alterations, the house retains its original form. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reg. No. Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development 32304012 Church Rosses Rated as of regional importance. Detached multiple-bay 164363 339772 320m ( v )

54 0 5-40 Upper limestone Church of Ireland church, built c. 1850. Three-bay nave, engaged square-plan three-stage tower with broached spire to west end of north elevation, single-bay chancel to east end, quadrant vestry to south-east between nave and chancel, vestigial north transept. Pitched slate roofs, clay ridge tiles, stepped ashlar verge copings with ball-top square finials and pedimented corbelled springers, half-round cast- iron gutters on eaves corbel course, cast-iron downpipes. Uncoursed squared rubble walling, tooled ashlar quoins (projecting to south-west as though to provide for additional building), tooled ashlar roof to tower, moulded strings between tower stages. This compact finely-crafted church building is a good example of the nineteenth century Gothic Revival style. Fine windows represent an important survival in terms of the church's architectural integrity. 32304008 Clubhouse Rosses Rated as of regional importance. Detached multiple-bay 163214 339962 800m

Upper single-storey renderedFor inspection purposesgolf only.clubhouse, built 1894. Two Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. contiguous east-west ranges, twelve-bay front range (south) fronted by verandah, central four-bay gabled attic, flanked by gablets on verandah roof, extensive single- and two-storey extensions c. 2004 to north. Pitched slate roofs, red clay ridge tiles, painted roughcast corbelled chimneystack, painted timber bargeboards, finials, moulded cast-iron gutters

to verandah. Set in golf course grounds, overlooking Rosses A ppendix F.1(v ppendix Point. Still retains something of its original late-Victorian feel. Timbered gables, open verandah and stained glass. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reg. No. Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development 32304011 House Rosses Rated as of regional interest. Pair of semi-detached two-bay 163260 339908 700m ( v )

54 0 5-41 Upper two-storey rendered houses, built c. 1900. Single-storey canted bay windows to south (front) elevation, two-storey returns to each house with single-storey lean-to abutting gable-end. Pitched slate roofs, roll-top clay ridge tiles, concrete verge copings, central brick corbelled chimneystack with dog-tooth string, uPVC gutters, cast-iron downpipes. This semi-detached pair of houses is primarily distinguished by a particularly fine cast-iron balcony of some artistic interest. 32304009 House Rosses Rated as of regional interest. Elsinore is a detached multiple- 163064 339783 800m Upper bay two-storey rendered house, built c. 1880, now ruinous. Rectangular plan with forward-thrusting bays to east and west sides of front (south) elevation. Pitched slate roof, hipped to projecting bays, dormer over east window, clay ridge tiles, unpainted smooth-rendered chimneystack, half- round cast-iron gutters on purpose-made quadrant wrought-

iron brackets, cast-ironFor inspection downpipes. purposes only. The structure has strong Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. associations with the Yeats Family and is believed to have been the summerhouse of WB Yeats and occupied by his cousin Henry Middleton. The buildings seems to have had some association with the pier and slipway on the coast to the south A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reg. No. Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development 32304007 Beacon Sligo Bay Rated as of regional interest. Freestanding, stone navigation 162566 339597 1.2km ( v )

54 0 5-42 beacon, erected 1821. Circular plan. Painted cast-iron statue of Royal Navy petty officer pointing on battered painted coursed ashlar limestone podium with moulded torus roll cut stone string course. Navigation light mounted to front of pedestal. Painted cast-iron access ladder set into channel formed in podium. Situated on Perch Rock between Rosses Point and Oyster Island. This figurative navigation beacon, cast in 1819 by Thomas Kirke in London, forms an important element of the maritime history of County Sligo. 32304002 Light House Oyster Island Rated as of regional interest. Freestanding two-stage 162863 339380 1km lighthouse, built 1932. Circular plan, small flat-roofed extension to east. Painted metal-clad polygonal dome. Faceted metal-framed glazed lantern. Tooled limestone platform, limestone corbels, wrought-iron balustrade. Battered unpainted ruled-and-lined smooth-rendered walling to shaft, tooled limestone chamfered plinth. This squat little

lighthouse was For rebuilt inspection in purposes 1932 only. as a rear leading-light to the Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Metal Man beacon to the north-west at the entrance to the straight between Oyster Island and Rosses Point. It is a prominent landmark of architectural and technical interest. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reg. No. Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development 32304001 Lime kiln Oyster Island Rated as of regional interest but also identified in the RMP 162978 339394 830m ( v )

54 0 5-43 SL008-195. Detached limestone lime-burning kiln, built c. 1900, now ruinous, built into N-facing scarp. Square plan. Uncoursed rubble walling, squared rubble quoins. Segmental-headed fuel opening, splayed jambs to firebox aperture. Infilled with rubble, grassed-over, close to high- water mark on north shore of Oyster Island. This fine lime kiln was built to supply lime for the construction of the lighthouse and cottages on Oyster Island, as such it is an artefact of industrial heritage significance and, although now long disused and partly reclaimed by the landscape, enhances the historic significance of Oyster Island. 32400832 House Rosses Rated as of regional interest. Detached five-bay single-storey 163914 340097 570m Upper thatched house, built c. 1830. Gable-fronted entrance porch projecting to south (front) elevation, three-bay single-storey extension c.1900 to east elevation. Reed thatched roof with raised ridge, shallow thatched roof to porch with deep lead-

capped painted For timber inspection bargeboards, purposes only. painted concrete skews, Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. pitched artificial slate roof to extension, brick cobelled chimneystacks. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reg. No. Classification Townland Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix development 32400831 House Rosses Rated as of regional interest. ‘St. Helen’s’ is a detached 166322 339301 250m ( v )

54 0 5-44 Upper three-bay two-storey over basement with attic rendered house, built c. 1890. Three-bay full-height gable-fronted entrance porch projecting from north (front) elevation, single- storey canted bays to east and west of porch, single storey wing to east. Pitched slate roofs, crested clay ridge tiles, painted smooth-rendered tapered-cap chimneystacks, painted concrete verge copings, painted timber fretwork projecting bargeboards to porch, profiled extruded aluminium gutters at eaves course. This stylistically-assured villa-style house occupies a splendid situation with views over Sligo Bay to the south. 32401419 House Ballincar Rated as of regional importance. Rossaville House is a 167625 338705 340m detached multi-bay two-storey with attic render and stone house, built c. 1895. Main house facing east rectangular on plan, full-height gabled projection to north-east with further two-storey gabled projection incorporating open porch at

ground floor, canted For inspection single-storey purposes only. hipped-roof bay windows Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. to north-east, south-east and south-west, single-storey hipped-roof extension to north built 1988. Pitched and hipped red artificial slate roofs c. 1988 to main house and extension.

Table A5-5 Ports, Piers and Harbours record Based on examination of Ports, Piers and Harbours of Ireland inventory at the DoEHLG, and supplemented by other sources as indicated. A

F.1(v ppendix Name Description 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Name Description endix F.1 endix Oyster Island Within the mouth of Sligo Harbour, the remains of a small pier built by Parliament c. 1750. Measured 13-feet high at end at low water, 160 feet long, was damaged in a storm. ( v )

54 0 5-45 Raughly Memorial stone attests to construction of a pier in 1822-25; repairs needed 1827-28 and works continued into 1836, and partial repairs on into the early 1900s. Memorial for the construction of a pier, labour return for week ending 24 August 1822, Alexander Nimmo's report on the completion of the pier, including expenditure account, report of storm damage to pier, throwing of stones into the harbour by fishermen, OPW8/304/1. Claim for damages caused by erection of pier, need to carry out repairs, fishery inspector's report, harbour engineer's plan, specification and estimate, harbour engineer's comments on modified plan proposed by fishery inspector, revised specification, OPW8/304/2. Proposals from contractors, acceptance of proposal of William O'Hara, request to employ an overseer, payment of second instalment to contractor, suspension of works, dismissal of contractor, harbour engineer's pay returns, resignation of paymaster, OPW8/304/3. Paymaster's claim for £136 due to him, list of working tools on 21 December 1830, suspension of works due to bad weather, proposal to employ overseer, appointment of overseer, supply of gun powder, overseer's reports, engineer's report, OPW8/304/4. Sligo 1836, a new quay and dock was proposed in the upper part of the tide-way near the bridge. Due to some misunderstanding with the proprietor of the mill, the tail-water of the mill was not carried through the dock as first intended. 1846, with limited means Sligo recently extended its quays by 700 yards, and removed portion of Blennick Point. Private quays were a cause of concern for the commercial traffic of the port; weirs existed which obstructed the flow of the tide, and the ebb and flood streams needed to be friested to prevent the increase of sand-banks. The channel was deemed to be in need of deepening (based on CSP 1846, vol. 18, p. viii).

1846, a parliamentary Act was made for making aFor Ship inspection Canal purposes from only. Sligo Harbour to Lough Gill, both in the County of Sligo, to be called Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. ‘The Sligo Canal’. Reference in National Archives, Kew HL/PO/PB/1/1846/9&10V1n437, original in Parliamentary Archives, Houses of Parliament, London. 1847 (August), certain dues claimed by Sligo Harbour Commissioners, National Archives, Kew TS 25/323. 1883, applications made for loans from Sligo Harbour Commissioners, National Archives, Kew T1/14736. A series of photographs survey in the National Library of Ireland’s collections showing shipping traffic alongside Sligo Quays at various points in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. A

F.1(v ppendix

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App Table A5-6 Historic Shipwreck Inventory Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix Based on examination of Historic Shipwreck Inventory at the DoEHLG, and supported by consideration of other sources, including the website , and the unpublished study of Sligo Harbour by Robinson, 2010. ( v ) 54 0 5-46 In addition to the more location-specific wrecking events listed below, a further 24 events are registered broadly to ‘Sligo’ and 9 more wrecking events are registered to Sligo Bay.

Name Location Date Description Easting Northing Distance from development Horizon Sligo Bay 1993 Fishing trawler, lying in c. 48m of water. 150233.891 348416.817 c. 12Km NW of Location 54°22.918' N 008°46,081' W Unknown Sligo Bay 28/12/1992 DoEHLG Wreck GIS database. Fishing 150266.617 348551.470 c. 12Km NW of trawler, lost. Proximity to Horizon may indicate this is the same vessel. Unknown Sligo Bay 01/1989 Obstacle, thought to be anchor in c. 16m 156686.415 339918.518 c. 3.5km WSW of water. Location 54°18.373' N of 008°39.968' W. Sligo Ardboline Island 05/02/1912 Iron steamship, 248-ton, en route from n/a n/a n/a Garston to Sligo with a cargo of coal, ran aground For inspection and sank. purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Fancy Bungar Bank 27/08/1859 Lord Drogheda’s Schooner, a 140-ton 161421 340151 several 100m SE or yacht ran aground and broke to pieces. of Bungar Bank 26/11/1859 survey area Naslieduk Bungar Bank 12/1859 Austrian brig with cargo of maize, n/a n/a n/a wrecked. Gartsheerie Cartron N/a Remains of a lighter broken into four 168297 337112 c. 100m E of A pieces, comprising metal and timber F.1(v ppendix fragments, surveyed by Auriel Robninson. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Name Location Date Description Easting Northing Distance from endix F.1 endix development Olive Cartron shore 27/02/1903 1000-tone steamship en route to Ballina n/a n/a n/a ( v )

54 0 5-47 with cargo of Indian corn, broke from her moorings in deep water by the quay, driven ashore and salvaged by a tug. Narayana Coney Island, W side 29/11/1886 Norwegian barque driven ashore and n/a n/a n/a totally wrecked. One of its cannon can be found on Coney Island, and the nameplate from one of the lifeboats is in Austies pub, Rosses Point. Norfolk East end of Oyster Island 18/01/1850 116-ton Sligo brig en route from Glasgow n/a n/a n/a with cargo of coal, struck in SSE force 2. Donegal Inner Harbour 28/08/1980 Fishing trawler, steel with timber planking, 164255.556 338562.025 c. 400-650m S of weighing 69 grt, carrying ballast only. Lies and and at a 45-degree angle on its starboard side, 165246.583 338726.962 much of which is collapsed or disintegrated, some decking remains, propeller in situ. Located within the Inner

Harbour, For inspection west purposesof Seal only. Bank, at 54°17.677' Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. N 008°32.982' W, plotted by Auriel Robinson at 54°17.77' N 008°32.07' W. Imperator Lower Rosses Point 01/12/1898 Wooden barque of Norway, 549 tons, en n/a n/a n/a route from Sligo to Hull with cargo of timber, became stranded in WNW force 10. A

Mayflower Off the Rosses 07/06/1791 En route from Limerick to Sligo, total loss. n/a n/a n/a F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Name Location Date Description Easting Northing Distance from endix F.1 endix development Molbec Old Quay, Sligo n/a Located at Old Quay, River Garvogue on 168997 336254 1.2km SE of ( v )

54 0 5-48 riverine silt and mud. This was a lighter that was in use early in the 20th century to offload corn from larger vessels moored at Rosses Point. Now abandones and ruined, festooned with seaweed, collapsed longitudinal timbers and iron ribbing in poor condition are apparent. The vessel measures 32m long, 5m wide at bow and stern, and 6.3m wide in middle, with stern post showing. Ballina Oyster Island 20/11/1830 Went ashore. n/a n/a n/a Martha Oyster Island 20/11/1830 Went ashore. n/a n/a n/a Unknown Oysterland (Oyster 20/09/1782 Vessel was overset and people drowned. n/a n/a n/a Island?) Maria Raghley Dock 20/05/1907 Wooden fishing cutter, moored in ballast, n/a n/a n/a foundered in westerly force 10 and lost.

Marianopolis Rosses Point 08/10/1869 Ran Foraground inspection purposesbetween only. Elsinore and the n/a n/a n/a Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Island, became a total wreck. New Unity Rosses Point 08/12/1833 Wooden smack founded in NW force 9 n/a n/a n/a and totally wrecked. Unknown Rosses Upper n/a Modern fishing trawler 164100 339800 c. 200m N of Diamantis Sandbank off Ballincar 23/02/1925 En route from the River Plate with 5,000 n/a n/a n/a Pateras tons of maize, entering Sligo harbour and A

caught in a snow storm, grounded, brought F.1(v ppendix ashore in two halves and sold for scrap. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Name Location Date Description Easting Northing Distance from endix F.1 endix development Delta Seal Rock 01/1856 Liverpool registered schooner, ran n/a n/a n/a ( v )

54 0 5-49 aground. Unknown Old Quay, Sligo n/a DoEHLG Wreck GIS database. 169044.930 336265.043 1.2km SE of Brothers Sligo Bar 08/021788 En route from New York to Sligo, lost. n/a n/a n/a Emily Sligo Bar 03/11/1854 165-ton brig, stranded and lost. n/a n/a n/a Sarah Sligo Bay 24/03/1757 En route to the Virgin Islands from n/a n/a n/a Liverpool, driven ashore and damaged considerably. Unknown Sligo Bay n/a DoEHLG Wreck GIS database. Anchor 156887.815 339403.818 2.8km WSW of and cable. Dwina Sligo Harbour 05/1896 328-ton Swedish barque. n/a n/a n/a New York Sligo Harbour 27/12/1816 286 ton fully rigged ship, stranded. n/a n/a n/a Packet Unknown Sligo Harbour 1911 Pilotage. Observations on the alleged n/a n/a n/a grounding of a vessel in Sligo Harbour. National Archives, Kew, MT 10/1377. Lady Hood Sligo Harbour Pool 20/11/1830 Bound for Sligo, lost. n/a n/a n/a Tom Sligo Harbour Pool 23/01/1776 British For inspectionsloop, purposes drove only. ashore in heavy n/a n/a n/a Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. weather. Unknown Sligo Harbour, near 20/04/1841 Large brig drifted into the approach of n/a n/a n/a Sligo harbour, bottom up with cargo of timber. Helen Sligo, at 06/08/1802 77-ton brig built in Scotland, on shore at n/a n/a n/a Sligo. A Unknown Sligo, near 09/03/1762 A Swedish ship from St. Croix, lost. n/a n/a n/a F.1(v ppendix

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App Table A5-7 Marine Disposal area Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix Name Location Date Description Easting Northing Distance to development ( v ) 55 0 5-50 Ashcrest Atlantic 07/12/1940 British registered steamer built in 1920, 54°35.519' 009°17.559' W 575m SW of weighing 5652 grt and measuring 121.9m N long, was torpedoed by U-boat and sank. 54°35.519' N 009°17.559' W. Hans Broge Atlantic 09/05/1917 Danish cargo ship built in 1907, weighing 54°38.570' 009°27.458' W 12km NW of 1432 grt, measuring 73.7m long, lost while N on a voyage from Rufisque to Greenock with a cargo of groundnuts, was sunk by the German submarine U-80 (Alfred von Glasenapp), 30 miles west from Teelin Head. There were no casualties. 54°38.570' N 009°27.458' W. Lady Christine Atlantic 04/2003 Irish fishing vessel. 54°36.397' N 54°36.397' 009°20.790' W 3.8km WNW 009°20.790' W. N of

Table A5-8 Licensed archaeological work For inspection purposes only. Source: Excavations Bulletin, annual publication that listsConsent all licensed of copyright archaeologicalowner required for any other excavation use. work conducted across Ireland. The publication is currently edited by Isabel Bennett, is produced with the support of the DoEHLG, and published by Wordwell, Bray.

Licence Classification Townland/ Description Easting Northing Distance to location development n/a Riverbed Sligo Town, Dredging activity on the River Garvogue (cited in n/a n/a n/a

impact Hughes Bridge Robinson 2010, 73). A area F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Licence Classification Townland/ Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix location development 98E0390 No Ballincar Testing in advance of road revealed nothing of interest. 167600 338900 390m ( v )

55 0 5-51 archaeological Richard Crumlish, ‘Ballincar’, Excavations 1998, 180.565. significance 98E0398 Sligo Town, A fish pass was apparently identified with older n/a n/a n/a Upper Weir, foundations associated. It was suggested that the site may Abbeyquarter have been an former fording point (cited in Robinson North/ 2010, 73). Newquarter 05E0289 Monitoring Sligo Town, Realignment of riverbank revealed mooring posts, large 169698 335977 1.9km Upper Weir stone anchors, sunken craft (cited in Robinson 2010, 73). 07E0233 Testing Sligo Town, 12 Mast timbers used as roof purlins in building, and some 169224 335760 1.7km Market Street, finds of medieval pottery, oyster shells and 18th century SL-14-065 glass bottles. Martin Timoney, ’12 Market Street, Abbeyquarter South’, Excavations 2007, 427.1553). 08D079 Monitoring Sligo Port Installation of timber jetty involved dredging to a depth of n/a n/a n/a 2.5m. The work revealed a timber pile. 99E0656 No Ballincar Testing in advance of road beside known ringfort revealed 168500 338200 836m

archaeological nothing of For inspectioninterest. purposes Richard only. Crumlish, ‘Ballincar’, Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. significance Excavations 1999, 272-3.780. n/a No Coney Island ESB cable laying was monitored n/a n/a n/a archaeological significance 00E00139, Burnt spreads Ballincar Monitoring and investigation as part of R291 Sligo-Rosses 168400 338200 745m 000E0307 and ditch Point road revealed a series of burnt spreads, pits and a A

ditch. Richard Crumlish, ‘Ballincar’, Excavations 2000, F.1(v ppendix 296-298.868-9. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Licence Classification Townland/ Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix location development 01E0525, Testing Sligo Town, House foundations and Fish Quay frontage identified in 169050 336040 n/a ( v )

55 0 5-52 02E1656 Silver Swan 2001; early 19th-century flour mill foundations identified in Hotel 2002. Audrey Gahan, ‘Silver Swan Hotel, Fish Quay, Sligo’, Excavations 2001, 373.1180; Giles Dawkes ‘Silver Swan Hotel, Fish Quay, Sligo’, Excavations 2005, 334.1380. 02E0651 Testing Sligo Town, Building remains observed, probably associated with 168900 336200 1.1km Quay Street Cromwellian Ordnance Fort of 1689 and possibly area extending back to the medieval castle. Eoin Halpin, ‘Quay Street, Sligo’, Excavations 2002, 468-9.1675. 03E0112 No Ballincar Recording of demolition of 19th century house, and 167500 339000 420m archaeological monitoring of ground works for new development including significance a storm water drain did not reveal material of interest. Martin Timoney, ‘Ballincar’, Excavations 2003, 430.1611; Excavations 2004, 385.1491. 04E1224 Prehistoric, and Ballincar Investigations revealed some material potentially 167400 391000 550m 18th-19th prehistoric in date, while and test-pit excavation in

century field advance of For inspectionhousing purposes development only. revealed modern Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. boundaries features. Eoin Halpin, ‘Ballincar’, Excavations 2005, 329.1355. 04E0538 Testing Ballincar Flint blade, rock crystal, two possible pounding stones 168600 337700 600m recovered but not context identified. Martin Timoney, ‘Ballincar’, Excavations 2004, 385.1492; Excavations 2006, 467.1759; Excavations 2007, 419.1523. A

03E0008 No Cartron Demolition of an agricultural building did not reveal 169000 337100 950m F.1(v ppendix archaeological material of interest. Eoin Halpin, ‘Cartron, Calry,Sligo’, significance Excavations 2003, 448.1673. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Licence Classification Townland/ Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix location development 99E0436 RMP 14-128 Cregg Line of ditch though to be associated with adjacent rignfort 166400 339500 320m ( v )

55 0 5-53 revealed during testing. Eoin Halpin, ‘Cregg’, Excavations 1999, 274-5.788. 02E0353 No Cregg Development near rectilinear enclosure revealed nothing. 166400 339300 130m archaeological Richard Crumlish, ‘Cregg’, Excavations 2002, 462.1643. significance 02E0736 No Cregg Development near an enclosure revealed nothing. Eoin 166400 395000 650m archaeological Halpin, ‘Cregg’, Excavations 2005, 332.1369. significance 01E1018 No Cummeen Testing in advance of development revealed nothing of Not given Not given n/a archaeological interest. Brian Halpin, ‘Cummeen’, Excavations 2001, significance 369.1162. 02E0852 Burnt spread Cummeen Road. Monitoring in advance of development 166250 336250 2km revealed a burnt spread measuring 2.6m by 2.6m in size. Mary Henry, ‘Strandhill Road, Cummeen’, Excavations 2002, 462.1644. 03E0277 Ditch Cummeen Ditch observed in development trenches for extension to a 166250 336250 1.3km

building. Mary For inspection Henry, purposes ‘Cummeen’, only. Excavations 2003, Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. 449.1676. 07E0417 No Cummeen Monitoring work on land. Martin Timoney, ‘Cummeen’, 169224 335760 1.5km archaeological Excavations 2007, 420.1531. significance 02E0350 No Finisklin Monitoring in advance of development did not reveal 167120 336706 1km archaeological material of interest. Eoin Corcoran, ‘Finsklin’, Excavations A

significance 2002, 463.1649-50; Aidan O’Connell, ‘Finisklin’, F.1(v ppendix Excavations 2003, 439.1649. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Licence Classification Townland/ Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix location development 07E0823 No Finisklin Monitoring work on land. Fiona Rooney, ‘Finisklin’, 168100 336500 650m ( v )

55 0 5-54 archaeological Excavations 2007, 420.1532. significance 04E0144 No Knappamore Test trenches in advance of housing development. Chris 166920 336470 1.4km archaeological Read, ‘Knappamore’, Excavations 2004, 399.1546. significance 07E0696 Harbour Raghly Monitoring of excavation trench for new seawall did not 158300 341800 2km+ reveal any material of archaeological significance. Eoin Halpin, ‘Raghly’, Excavations 2007, 422-3.1539. 03E0514 RMP 014-65 Rathquarter Calry Church, early 19th-century church. Excavations in Not given Not given n/a advance of development revealed natural deposits. Martin Timoney, ‘Calry Church, the Mall, Rathquarter’, Excavations 2003, 449-50.1680; Excavations 2006, 474- 5.1791. 06E1204 Urban Rathquarter 4 The Mall; investigations in advance o development 169500 336100 1.6km revealed one 19th/20th century linear feature. Eoin Halpin, ‘Rathquarter’, Excavations 2007, 426-7.1552.

07E0849 No Rathedmond Sligo VEC For inspectionsite on purposes Quay only. Street, monitoring of 165100 335900 3.1km Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. archaeological developments works. Eoin Halpin, ‘Rathedmond’, significance Excavations 2007, 427.1554. 02E0278 No Rosses Upper Rosses Point, monitoring in advance o development 163400 339700 450m archaeological revealed deep topsoil deposits but no material of significance archaeological interest. Martin Timoney, ‘Rosses Upper, Rosses Point’, Excavations 2002, 465.1660. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Licence Classification Townland/ Description Easting Northing Distance to endix F.1 endix location development 06E0760 RMP SL014-16 Shannon Eighter Investigation of site associated with an extended area of 169300 338200 1.5km ( v )

55 0 5-55 burial revealed several ditch features. Richard Crumlish, ‘Shannon Eighter’, Excavations 2006, 473.1785; Excavations 2007, 424-5.1543, 1544. 06E0975 No Shannon Eighter Monitoring in advance of a housing development. Eoin 169800 337800 1.7km archaeological Halpin, ‘Shannon Eighter’, Excavations 2006, 473-4.1786. significance

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App APPENDIX 5B: OBSERVATION OF MARINE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY ANOMALIES.Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix

HARBOUR ( v )

55 0 5-56 Source: Vessel Track Plots, Data Record. Coordinates presented on side-scan sonar data record in Latitude/Longitude, and converted to Irish National Grid using Grid InQuest™. Coordinates presented on magnetometer data record in Irish National Grid, extracted directly from trackline corrected for layback. Refer to Figures 12.14-12.16 for the distribution of each anomaly.

Table B5-1 Harbour Area Side-scan sonar anomalies

Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image Potential ss1 Low 54:18.2139 008:33.5575 163638.9 339563 Short linear anomaly 5.9m long in area of disturbed seabed.

For inspection purposes only. ss2 Low 54:18.1372 008:33.1416 164089Consent of copyright 339417.1 owner required Localisedfor any other use. area of stone on flat

channel bed, concentrated in area 9m long. Magnetometer passed within 3m of this location and did not indicate any fluctuation. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix

0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss3 Low 54:18.1237 008:33.0567 164181 339391.4 Perch. Same as ss30 ( v ) 55 0 5-57

ss4 Low 54:18.0231 008:32.7389 164524.3 339202.1 Substantial rounded mound of stone serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch. Measures c. 34m by 29m in diameter, rising 3.6m in height. Short linear on W side may be a length of cable or chain.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss5 Low 54:18.0159 008:32.0505 165271.2 339183 Substantial rounded mound of ( v )

55 0 5-58 stone serving as foundation of navigation aid/perch and terminal of linear training wall feature. The wall appears to postdate the mound. A scour pocket at the W end of the mound reveals undercutting.

Measures 19 x 16m in diameter. ss6 Low 54:18.0428 008:31.8870 165449 339231.6 Rounded mound of stone serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch. 15m in diameter, and 2.6m high. The attendant training wall is fragmented to the E.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss7 Low 54:18.0539 008:31.7449 165603.3 339251 Rounded mound of stone ( v )

55 0 5-59 serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch. 14x16m in diameter, 3.1m high. The attendant training wall is clearly a later build. ss8 Low 54:18.0879 008:31.6835 165670.4 339313.6 Short linear anomaly lying within approach channel on N side. 9.3m long. Possible debris. It is not highlighted as an anomaly in magnetometer track that passes 9m to S.

ss9 Low 54:18.0456 008:31.5716 165791.2 339234.2 Rounded mound of stone serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 11m in diameter

For inspection purposes only.and 2m in height, slightly Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. denuded in appearance, subdued in part by the training wall. Length of cable or chain

observed on N side. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss10 Low 54:18.0752 008:31.4998 165869.6 339288.5 Small linear anomaly with ( v )

56 0 5-60 thickened end lying on N side of approach channel; possible anchor or mooring block. 6.6m long. Corresponds with mg19.

ss11 Low 54:18.0333 008:31.4399 165934 339210.3 Rounded mound of stone serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 14m in diameter and 2.4m in height, slightly denuded in appearance, subdued in part by the training

wall. Length of cable or chain observed on S side. ss12 Low 54:18.0064 008:31.2976 166088 339159.3 Rounded mound of stone For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required servingfor any other use.as foundation for navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 18.4m in diameter and 2.7m in height, slightly denuded in appearance, integrated into the training wall. A

F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss13 Low 54:18.0076 008:31.1608 166236.5 339160.4 Small rounded anomaly on N ( v )

56 0 5-61 side of approach channel, probable foundation for navigation aid. Magnetometer track lay 22m to S which is too far away to add insight.

ss14 Low 54:17.9695 008:31.1815 166213.5 339089.9 Rounded mound of stone serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 14m in diameter and 2.3m in height.

ss15 Low 54:17.9221 008:31.0399 166366.5 For inspection 339000.8 purposes only.Rounded mound of stone Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 10m in diameter. Length of cable or chain on E side. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss16 Low 54:17.9479 008:30.9879 166423.3 339048.3 Localised small anomaly ( v )

56 0 5-62 toward N side of approach channel, standing proud of the bed; probable navigation aid. Magnetometer track lay 32m to S.

ss17 Low 54:17.8720 008:30.8899 166528.6 338906.7 Denuded rounded mound of stone serving as foundation for navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 12m in diameter, 3m high.

ss18 Low 54:17.8124 008:30.7065 166726.8 338794.7 Rounded mound of stone

For inspection purposes only.serving as foundation for Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. navigation aid/perch, measuring c. 11.5m in diameter, 1.8m high.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss19 Low 54:17.8017 008:30.6011 166841 338774 Localised small-scale anomaly ( v )

56 0 5-63 toward central area of approach channel. 4m long. Magnetometer track passed within 7m but did not detect any fluctuation. ss20 Low 54:17.7614 008:30.4214 167035.5 338697.8 Localised anomaly within approach channel, partially buried. 4.4m long. Possible mooring block for buoy position 13m away.

ss21 Low 54:17.5235 008:30.0188 167469.3 338253.3 Irregular pattern on N side of approach channel; possible patch of siltation. Measures For inspection purposes only.12x4m. Magnetometer Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. trackline passed within 9m and did not observe any fluctuation in the background field, suggesting there is no ferrous metal associated. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss22 Low 54:17.1615 008:29.7029 167807.4 337579.3 Irregular small-scale anomaly ( v )

56 0 5-64 in area of confused bed formation. Possible debris. 1.9m in diameter. The magnetometer track lay 20m E.

ss23 Low 54:17.1200 008:29.6248 167891.6 337501.8 Two small-scale anomalies 3 m apart, the larger of which is sharply defined as rectangular in shape, 1.9 x 0.9m in size. Corresponds with mg10.

ss24 Low 54:17.0363 008:29.5554 167965.9 337345.9 Linear anomaly on bed lying at right angles to natural formation. Possible debris, 11.6m long. In area of intense

For inspection purposes only.magnetic readings within port Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. so that the magnetometer which passed 12m to the W

cannot provide independent insight. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss25 Possibly high 54:16.8833 008:29.3031 168237.8 337060.2 Boat-shaped negative anomaly ( v )

56 0 5-65 measuring 16m long by 3.1m wide in the middle, this feature has what appears to be a defined bow and stern, and rests in an area of silt directly against a stone area that appears to be set, measuring 8m by 7m in size. Corresponds to mg9. However data presents it as a negative image with no internal features that one can expect of actual wreck sites. It remains unclear what this image is. ss26 Low 54:17.6175 008:30.1622 167314.9 338428.8 Small-scale localised anomaly on channel bed. In proximity to

For inspection purposes only.magnetic fluctuations Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. indicative of metal content, mg14. Probable debris. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss27 Low 54:16.7319 008:29.1084 168447.2 336777.9 Very circular shore-based ( v )

56 0 5-66 feature 6m in diameter.

ss28 Low 54:16.7823 008:29.0958 168461.6 336871.3 Shore-based rounded feature 14m long.

ss29 Low 54:17.8372 008:30.7133 166719.8 338840.7 Tyre, 1x1m in size. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Magnetometer track passed within 11m and did not detect any magnetic fluctuation on its

line. ss30 Low 54:18.1255 008:33.0567 164181 339394.7 Navigation aid/perch, very clearly defined. 1.5m long,

0.9m wide, 3.4m high. Same A ppendix F.1(v ppendix as ss3. 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss31 Low 54:16.9054 008:29.4245 168106.3 337102.1 Possible outfall pipe, apparent ( v )

56 0 5-67 over 22m and extending 7.8m into active channel.

ss32 Low 54:18.0789 008:31.9593 165371 339299.1 Small irregular anomaly on N side of approach channel, probable mooring block as it is within 12m of a charted mooring.

Table B5-2 Harbour Area Magnetometer Anomalies Note: anomalies associated with known shipping activity within Sligo Port and with navigation markers are not included.

Reference Archaeological Easting Northing Description Image For inspection purposes only. Name Potential Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

mg1 Low 168822 336491 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg2 Low 168765 336542 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Name Potential mg3 Low 168743 336568 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris. ( v ) 56 0 5-68

mg4 Low 168681 336645 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg5 Low 168673 336651 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg6 Low 168663 336662 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg7 Low 168594 336737 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg8 Low 168330 336953 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg9 Possibly high 168212 337065 Extended intense fluctuation in magnetic field over 28m- For inspection purposes only. long Consentarea of(recorded copyright owner reference required for anypoint other refersuse. to the centre of the highest readings). This anomaly is within 20m of the centrepoint of ss25 and logically refers to the same feature. It may represent a direct observation of the nearby sonar contact, or it may refer to a buried portion of the same feature.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Name Potential mg10 Low 187894 337493 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, observed 4m S of ( v )

56 0 5-69 ss23 so that it is a close correspondence with same, debris.

mg11 Low 167802 337668 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg12 Low 167720 337826 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg13 Low 167486 338205 Broad fluctuation in magnetic field that is observed on both survey lines, 20m apart, that is more intense on the E side. The absence of sonar anomalies in the area may indicate this location reflects a natural underlying magnetic variation. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. mg14 Low 167321 338421 Localised fluctuations in magnetic field, within 7m of ss26, debris.

mg15 Low 167307 338439 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Name Potential mg16 Low 167163 338597 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris. ( v ) 57 0 5-70

mg17 Low 166297 339061 Area of extended low level magnetic fluctuation observed over an area 65m long. It was not detected on the second magnetometer trackline, but only on the southern line, suggesting that it is not a natural variation across the channel but is restricted to the south channel area. Possibly a localised natural occurrence or an abandoned length of cable/netting next to the training wall. mg18 Low 166040 339230 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg19 Low 165872 339281 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, corresponds with ss10, anchor/mooring feature.

For inspection purposes only. mg20 Low 165854 339244 LocalisedConsent fluctuationof copyright owner in requiredmagnetic for any field,other use. debris.

mg21 Low 165264 339266 Localised sharp fluctuation in magnetic field. Lies directly across the channel from the terminal perch and therefore is probably the location of a navigation aid. Nothing apparent A

on sonar data. F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Name Potential mg22 Low 165021 339199 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris. ( v ) 57 0 5-71

mg23 Low 164483 339326 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field. Possible former navigation aid.

mg24 Low 164278 339362 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg25 Low 163716 339597 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field over an area 24m long, debris.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App MARINE DISPOSAL AREA Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo endix F.1 endix

Source: Vessel Track Plots, Data Record. ( v

) Coordinates presented on side-scan sonar data record in Latitude/Longitude, and converted to Irish National Grid using Grid HyPack™. 57 0 5-72 Coordinates presented on magnetometer data record in Irish National Grid, extracted directly from trackline corrected for layback. Refer to Figure 22 for the distribution of each anomaly.

Table B5-3 Marine Disposal Area Side-scan sonar anomalies

Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image Potential ss300 Possible 54:36.2833 N 009:16.3597 W 117806.09 373687.16 A boat-shaped anomaly measuring 24.9m long x 5.9m wide, located c. 100m north of disposal area. The data trace shows a principal area of anomaly on one side, with a less-clearly defined tapering shape on For inspection purposes only. the other. The image is Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. orientated with north to the top of the picture. ss300 Another view of ss300, with N to right side A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss301 Low 54:36.0917 N 009:16.9336 W 117181.53 373342.93 Small anomaly 3.8 x 4m in ( v )

57 0 5-73 size

ss302 Low 54:36.1188 N 009:16.9578 W 117156.38 373393.69 11x3m anomaly on bed, probable rock

ss303 Low 54:35.8296 N 009:16.6865 W 117438.83 372851.84 Small-scale anomaly 2.5m long

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss305 Low 54:35.9482 N 009:16.3999 W 117751.54 373066.27 Small-scale isolated ( v )

57 0 5-74 anomaly,

ss306 Low 54:35.8899 N 009:16.5951 W 117539.32 372961.92 3.2m long localised anomaly on sandy bed.

ss307 Low 54:35.6557 N 009:16.8248 W 117283.98 372531.94 4.2m long linear object on seabed

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

A ppendix F.1(v ppendix 0 n )

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App Applicatio Licence Sea at Dumping Dredging Harbour Sligo Reference Archaeological Latitude N Longitude W Easting Northing Description Image endix F.1 endix Potential ss308 Low 54:35.6441 N 009:16.3700 W 117773.53 372501.52 6m long possible object on ( v )

57 0 5-75 sea at side of slight hollow.

Table B5-4 Marine Disposal Area Magnetometer Anomalies Refer to Figure 12.22 for the distribution of each anomaly.

Reference Archaeological Fix Easting Northing Description Image Potential mg300 Low 75 117033 373440 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

mg301 Low 186-7 117955 373240 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris.

mg302 Low 322 117564 372937 Localised fluctuation in magnetic field, debris. A ppendix F.1(v ppendix

0 n )

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APPENDIX 5C: ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT

O’CARROLL ASSOCIATES For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. RIAI Architects/Conservation Consultants Eagle Lodge ROSCOMMON Tel : 090-662.6350 Fax : 090-662.6117 Email : [email protected] 16th MAY 2011

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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ...... 77 APPROACH TO REPORT ...... 77 MAPS & PHOTOGRAPHS ...... 77 SURROUNDING STRUCTURES...... 78 CONCLUSIONS ...... 78 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 79 PLATES ...... 79 Plates 1 to 4 from Lawrence Collection. Plates 5 to 13 taken during Site Visit.

INTRODUCTION

O’Carroll Associates (OCA), Conservation Architects, were approached by the Archaeological Diving Company Ltd (ADCO) to prepare an Assessment of the Impact of the proposed dredging of the main channel to Sligo Port to take into account any effect on the architectural heritage of the immediate vicinity of that channel and in the wider locality where there may be some impact.

A copy of the Admiralty Chart was provided to identify the area that is proposed to be deepened for the main channel and that area in the mouth of the harbour where dredging work will continue.

APPROACH TO REPORT To assess any possible impact on the shore, a series of maps was prepared based on First Edition Ordnance Survey and subsequent For inspection purposes editions only. where that identified area is Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. superimposed on various editions of various maps to identify exactly the area where there may be some impact. In particular, the most Easterly portion of the identified area coincides with the so-called Deepwater Harbour which has various structures including sheds, warehouses, bunkers and tanks, none of which is of any architectural merit and none of which is in good condition or might be affected by any mechanical digging or dredging in the immediate vicinity.

Site visits were made on separate occasions in various weathers to identify the area around the harbour and around the shore at Rosses Point near both Coney Island and Oyster Island to see if any structures there could be affected by the proposed dredging Works.

MAPS & PHOTOGRAPHS Maps 1 to 8 identify the exact position of the proposed dredging area and it can be clearly seen that the only portion which will affect the existing structures would be the most Easterly end of the area identified.

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The Maps are based on Ordnance Survey publications and the Plates are taken from the Lawrence Collection and from the Authors on digital images taken from time to time along the shore and at the Deepwater Harbour at Sligo Harbour.

SURROUNDING STRUCTURES In the context of this Report, the term “architectural heritage” is defined as meaning “all structures and buildings together with their settings and attendant grounds, fixtures and fittings as well as groups of such structures and buildings and sites which are of architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest.”

Under this definition of “architectural heritage” sometimes architectural heritage is overlooked in a desk study but the inspections carried out by Santiago Marinas and Brian F. O’Carroll were specific to identify any such items of architectural heritage and despite considerable time spent on site in examining all surrounds, structures and buildings, the conclusion can only be drawn that there is little architectural heritage in this particular area, while adjoining lands are subject to the requirements of Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) (Map No. 6) and Special Protection Areas (SPA) (Map No. 7).

As there are no structures of architectural heritage merit in the vicinity of the site where excavation work and dredging would take place, it can only be concluded that work should be allowed to continue without any further investigation in relation to architectural heritage or conservation proposals.

There are no “Protected Structures” in the area of the proposed development.

The built environment around the so-called Deepwater Harbour consist of miscellaneous derelict buildings of no merit, as illustrated on Plates 5C 5 to 7 inclusive. In particular, Plates For inspection purposes only. 5C 9 and 10, (views of the DeepwaterConsent of copyright Harbour owner required from for the any otherWestern use. side), further confirm the miscellaneous nature of the structures in the area. Further inland, as per Plate 5C No. 11, there is one building of limited value but as this is not being effected in any way by the proposed dredging, little can be added other than to say there will be no impact on the surrounding structures, regardless of quality.

CONCLUSIONS Despite extensive desktop studies and inspections on site, there is no structure in the area which will be impacted by the proposed dredging work and even those buildings which may have limited merit are so far away from the Deepwater Harbour that, for the purpose of this Study, can be ignored.

Apart from the concrete quay structures in the Deepwater Harbour, which will not be effected by any dredging work, there are no other structures in the area as can be seen from Plates 5C 8 to 10.

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On the northern side of the dredging area the work would be so far away from the shoreline and any structures that it will not have any impact on any architectural feature of that coastline.

Out to Rosses Point, overlooking Oyster Island and Coney Island, it can be clearly seen from Plates 5C 12 and 13 that the underwater dredging will not have any effect on any part of the shoreline at Coney Island or Oyster Island.

RECOMMENDATIONS In principle, the dredging proposals will have no impact on architectural structures in the area, either at the Deepwater Harbour or along the shore of Sligo Bay towards Rosses Point or at Oyster or Coney Islands.

Work should proceed without let or hindrance as such work will not have any impact on the architectural heritage of the area.

Prepared by Brian F O’Carroll O’CARROLL ASSOCIATES RIAI Architects/Conservation Consultants Monday, 16 May 2011

PLATES

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 5C 1 View of Sligo Harbour, some distance from dredging area. (Lawrence Collection)

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Plate 5C 2View of location of Deepwater Harbour, the most westerly end being where the dredging work will take place. (Lawrence Collection)

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 5C 3 Easterly end of Sligo harbour with some interesting stone buildings Some of these survive but they are a considerable distance away from the proposed dredging area and will not be impacted in any way by the proposed Works. (Lawrence Collection)

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Plate 5C 4 Image of northern shore beyond dredging area showing shoreline with no structures. Landscape remains unchanged over the last century. (Lawrence Collection)

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 5C 5 View of storage shed nearest to Deepwater Harbour. Shed is in poor condition and is made up of many miscellaneous elements including corrugated asbestos cement sheeting, metal rainwater goods and exposed blockwork.

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Plate 5C 6 Further view of Deepwater Harbour where dredging will take place. In the background is a miscellaneous group of buildings of the mid-20th century, including steel-framed structures with corrugated asbestos cement roofs, metal storage tanks and in the background, further concrete structures of recent origin, using PVC clad metal decking. None of these structures will in any way be affected by the dredging work.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 5C 7 Western end of Deepwater Harbour In background are storage tanks for various petrochemicals and miscellaneous exposed concrete block walls, lightweight steel structures and further corrugated asbestos cement sheeting. Quay walls are of concrete - both pre-cast and in-situ - with backfilling and paved surfaces, none of which will be effected by dredging works.

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Plate 5C 8 Approach road to Deepwater Harbour Again shows miscellaneous concrete structures on the left hand side and metal barriers to right hand side. No impact on any architectural heritage – which does not exist.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 5C 9 Further view of Deepwater Harbour Shows in-situ and precast concrete structures as ‘hard’ area with miscellaneous industrial buildings on the right hand side of the image, none of which will be impacted and none of which has any architectural merit.

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Plate 5C 10 Further view of concrete structures of Deepwater Harbour Shows little or no buildings in the area and no impact on any architectural heritage.

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Plate 5C 11 Industrial storage building, Located further eastwards and away from the dredging area, with corrugated asbestos cement sheeting and fibre asbestos cement ventilators. This is the only visible structure in the area of the Deepwater Harbour and is clearly of little architectural merit, despite the fact that the dredging work will not have any impact.

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Plate 5C 12 View from Rosses Point towards Oyster Island No structures on Oyster Island will be affected by any dredging work.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 5C 13 View of channel between Oyster Island and Coney Island No structures exist in this area and consequently the proposed dredging work will have no impact.

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APPENDIX 5D: MARINE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY

SLIGO HARBOUR DREDGING CAMPAIGN ARCHAEO-GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY FIELD REPORT

Prepared by: Client: Consulting Engineer: For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. IRISH HYDRODATA Ltd. Rathmacullig West, Ballygarvan, Co. Cork. May 102011

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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ...... 87 SURVEY EQUIPMENT ...... 88 SURVEY METHODOLOGY ...... 90 DATA SUPPLIED FOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT ...... 93 EXAMPLES OF SURVEY DATA...... 94

INTRODUCTION In late 2010, Irish Hydrodata Ltd. (IHD) was commissioned by RPS Consulting Engineers (Belfast), to carry out an archaeo-geophysical survey at Sligo Harbour. Sligo County Council was considering a dredging campaign for the Bungar Bank and in the river channel to Sligo (Fig. 1). The dredge spoil would be dumped at an offshore disposal site (Fig. 2). The purpose of this survey was to provide information for an archaeological assessment of the directly impacted areas (disposal site, Bungar Bank and river channel). The survey was to comprise sidescan sonar and magnetometer. It was agreed that the survey be carried out in late spring of 2011 when sea conditions would have improved.

It was IHD’s brief to collect the data and to provide it, in a suitable format, to Dr. Niall Brady of the Archaeological Diving Company (ADCO) to assess the areas’ archaeological potential. The survey areas are shown in Figures 1 to 3. A minimum requirement was that the survey methods would satisfy the guidelines set down by the Underwater Archaeological Unit (UAU) of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (formerly Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) at the time of the survey).

For inspection purposes only. On January 18th 2011, an applicationConsent of copyright was owner made required forto any DoEHLG other use. for a ‘Consent to use a

Detection Device’.

This consent was received by post on February 16th.

The survey was carried out during April 19-21st April 2011 and all survey data provided to Dr. Niall Brady (ADCO) by April 28th. Dr. Brady’s report is produced under separate cover. This report summarises the fieldwork activities only.

Subsequent to undertaking the fieldwork, the scope of the dredging project was altered by RPS, as the hydrographic survey information showed that dredging was not necessary at the Bungar Bank and therefore the impact assessment does not include this area.

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Figure 5D 20 Dredge Sites at Bungar Bank and Navigation Channel

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Figure 5D 21 Offshore Disposal Site

SURVEY EQUIPMENT

The survey was carried out from a locally based vessel ‘Sea Star’. Thisisa31’ Mitchell class launch with a P5 passenger license and is fully equipped with all required safety equipment.

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Figure 5D 22 Survey Vessel "Sea Star"

Positioning Positioning of the survey vessel was achieved using Trimble Ag132 DGPS with SBAS corrections. This provided vessel positions in latitude/longitude coordinates to sub-meter horizontal accuracies. Data from all the survey locations was mapped on to Irish National Grid (ING).

Sidescan Sonar Survey A L-Klein System 3000 (Fig. 4) simultaneous dual frequency digital sidescan sonar system was employed for the survey. This system operates at 100kHz and 500kHz simultaneously, thereby providing a greater possibility of detecting objects and providing a clear image of the seabed. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5D 23 L³ -Klein System 3000 Towfish

Magnetometer Survey A Geometrics G882 marine magnetometer (Fig. 5) was employed for this aspect of the survey. This is a caesium magnetometer and is ideal for small boat operations. It has a sensitivity of 0.02gamma at 10 samples per second.

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Figure 5D 24 Geometrics G882 Marine Magnetometer

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

Bungar Bank Survey lines were steamed at 50m line spacing in an E-W direction. The sidescan range was set to 75m port and starboard to ensure better than 200% overlap and to ensure good data beneath the towfish.

The magnetometer survey was carried out simultaneously with the sidescan sonar survey and over the same planned survey lines. The instrument was towed 20m behind the vessel and at 1m below the surface.

The survey trackplot is shown in Figure 6.

River Channel Two survey lines were steamed in the river channel, one towards Sligo town, keeping towards the southwestern side and another in the opposite direction, keeping to the north western side. The sidescan range was set to 75m port and starboard. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

The magnetometer survey was carried out simultaneously with the sidescan sonar survey and over the same planned survey lines. The instrument was towed 20m behind the vessel and 1m below the surface.

The survey trackplot is shown in Figure 7.

Offshore Disposal Site Survey lines were steamed at 50m line spacing in an E-W direction. The sidescan range was set to 150m port and starboard due to the water depth and fish height. The sidescan fish was towed at a layback of 50m from the vessel.

The magnetometer survey was carried out simultaneously with the sidescan sonar survey and over the same planned survey lines. The magnetometer was piggy-backed through the sidescan towfish to give a total layback of 60m.

The survey trackplot is shown in Figure 8.

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Logged Data Format Sidescan data from both frequencies (100kHz and 500kHz) were logged digitally using SonarPro software. The data was logged in XTF format.

Magnetometer data was logged to hard disk using ‘Hypack’ hydrographic survey software.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5D 25 Survey Trackplot at Bungar Bank

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Figure 5D 26 Survey Trackplot in Navigation Channel

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Figure 5D 27 Survey Trackplot at Offshore Disposal Site

DATA SUPPLIED FOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

Data Format The original sidescan data without slant-range correction was provided to Dr. Niall Brady to For inspection purposes only. assist with his assessment of theConsent archaeological of copyright owner required potential for any otherof theuse. survey areas. The data was supplied in XTF format on DVD. Position data is embedded in the XTF files.

The magnetometer data was made available in the form of time series plots with position event marks. The data was supplied in AutoCAD format.

Survey trackplots with position event marks were also supplied in AutoCAD format.

Data Quality Data quality is often linked directly to ambient weather and sea conditions. The weather conditions during the survey of the Bungar Bank and river channel were good and the survey data was also of good quality. Windy conditions prevailed during the survey at the offshore disposal site and wave heights were of the order of 2-3m. This, allied to the depth at the site (~90m) meant that data quality here was no better than reasonable.

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EXAMPLES OF SURVEY DATA

Sidescan and Magnetometer

Some examples of the sidescan data are presented in Figures 9 to 11. An example of a magnetic anomaly is shown in Figure 12.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 5D 28 Bungar Bank sidescan mosaic, showing mostly featureless seabed with megaripples in north east corner

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Figure 5D 29 Deepwater and Barytes Jetty - Sidescan Mosaic Showing Jetty structure piles and bed scars

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Figure 5D 30 Disposal Site - Sidescan mosaic showing areas of high and low reflectivity indicative of sandy and muddy seabed areas

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Figure 5D 31 Magnetometer Anomalies in port area

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APPENDIX F.1(vi)

ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT:

IMPACTS ON FISHERIES

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6.0 FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE

6.1 INTRODUCTION

This section describes fisheries interests in the area of the proposed dredging scheme in Sligo Harbour and at the proposed dumpsite outside Donegal Bay, specifically with regard to: • Commercial fisheries • Shellfish aquaculture • Salmonid migrations • Eel & lamprey migrations • Recreational sea angling

Also included is an assessment of impacts and recommended mitigation measures.

6.2 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES Fisheries are considered in the areas of both the proposed dredging activity and the proposed dumpsite for dredged spoil materials.

Dredging Area The course of the navigation channel into Sligo port and the area proposed for dredging is shown in Drawing 1. There is little fishing activity in the proximity of area to be dredged within Sligo Harbour apart from some limited potting for lobster along the shore to the north of the channel. Outside of Sligo Harbour there is further potting for lobster and crab together with a limited degree of gill netting.

Proposed Dumpsite For inspection purposes only. The material from the proposedConsent dredging of copyright of ownerthe requiredchannel for any in other Sligo use. Harbour is to be dumped at

a proposed offshore location outside Donegal Bay (see Drawing 5). The dumping site is located in ICES statistical rectangle 38E0 and is approximately 17km from Malin More Head and 30km north of the nearest point on the north Mayo coast. This site is in an important area for Brown crab fishing, although the most intensive fishing activity is probably to the west of the actual dumping area.

6.2.1 Irish Brown Crab Fishery The Irish fishery for Brown crab (Cancer pagurus) has been examined in detail by Tully et al (2006) in a BIM report produced for the national Crab Management Advisory Group, a committee of the Management Framework for Shellfisheries which advises the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) on the management of shellfisheries. This assessment is based largely on the findings of the BIM report and supplemented with updated information through consultation with local BIM representatives covering the north Mayo, Sligo and Donegal region.

Landings of brown crab into Ireland in the last decade reached a peak of over 14,200 tonnes in 2004 with a value of almost €17 million, falling to 8,600 tonnes worth €12.85 million in

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2010 (Table 6.1). In terms of value, from 2001 to 2005 brown crab was in the top five most important species of fish landed into Ireland; catches have since declined but remain in the top ten species landed.

Table 6.1: Total landings of brown crab into Irish ports, 2001-10 (Source: SFPA)

Year Live wt (tonnes) Value (€000s)

2001 10,312 13,109 2002 10,098 13,213 2003 10,655 10,231 2004 14,217 16,992 2005 9,527 9,571 2006 10,827 8,223 2007 9,251 na 2008 7,640 9,149 2009 6,614 na 2010 8,621 12,847

Landings increased by approximately 500 tonnes per year between 1990 and 2004 with a higher rate of increase during the latter half of this period (Figure 6.1). The Irish fleet can be divided into <12m vessels which land crab on a daily basis and a more mobile >18m vivier fleet which can carry live crab onboard and remain at sea for extended periods. The vivier fleet fishes off the northwest coast although, through modernisation, the <12m fleet has increased its seaward range and can fish outside the 12nm limit on a daily basis.

14000 For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. National crab landings 12000 1952-2004

10000

8000

6000

4000

Tonnes of crab landed 2000

0 1952 1956 1960 1964 1968 1972 1976 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004

Figure 6.1: National landings of brown crab between 1952 and 2004 (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission of BIM)

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6.2.1.1 Biology of the Brown Crab The brown crab or edible crab (Plate 6.1) is a decapod crustacean and is the largest of the common crabs found in Irish waters. It is widely distributed in Irish and British waters, and throughout north-western Europe. Brown crab can live for at least 15 years - mating first takes place is in spring and summer when the females are 5-6 years old and occurs shortly after the female has moulted. Females are 'berried', carrying the eggs under the abdomen over winter for 6-9 months and releasing the larvae in late spring/early summer. Crabs have a high fecundity with each female hatching 1-4 million eggs depending on size. Post-larvae settle in inshore areas and juveniles are often found in shallow waters. Adult crabs are migratory and undertake extensive seasonal migrations, probably associated with the reproductive cycle.

Plate 6.1: Brown Crab

Tully et al (2206) consider that Irish stocks are probably regional in scale (>100km) with a variable range from the coast to offshore waters. The authors also note that crabs on the northwest coast may be regarded as a single functional unit distributed over a wide range off For inspection purposes only. the northwest coast of Ireland andConsent west of copyright of Scotland owner required (Figure for any other 6.2). use.

6.2.2 The North West Crab Fishery A significant proportion of the national crab catch is taken in the northwest fishery and is landed into Donegal and Mayo (Figure 6.3).

6.2.2.1 Fishing activity in the north Mayo area The crab grounds off the north Mayo coast form a significant part of the North West crab fishery which is the largest stock fished by Irish vessels. The area is fished predominantly by vessels of <12m from ports on the north Mayo coast but also including ports on the Sligo coast and extending round into south Donegal. These vessels may steam five to six hours offshore to the fishing grounds.

Many of the fishermen in the north Mayo area are represented by the Erris Inshore Fishermen’s’ Association (EIFA) which covers ports from Belderrig to Doohoma – the group has around 50 members. All vessels concentrate on shellfish although not all fish in the area under consideration. A second group, the Erris Lobster Conservation and Restocking Association operates more locally in the Erris area.

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Figure 6.2:Probable distribution of the northwest crab stock (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission For inspection of BIM) purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. 9000 8000 Crab landed into Donegal and Mayo 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 Tonnes of crab of Tonnes 2000 1000 0 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Figure 6.3: Annual landings of crab into Donegal and Mayo, 1990-2004 (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission of BIM)

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The crab fishing area overlaps with the pelagic fishery operating out of Killybegs and there is an agreement in place between EIFA and the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (KFO) to avoid damage to static gear from trawling activities.

In 2004 over 1,500 tonnes of crab was taken by the Mayo <12m fleet in ICES rectangle 38E0, in which the proposed dumpsite is located (Figure 6.4). However, it is believed that more vessels are now active in this area and the annual crab catch is now in excess of 2,000 tonnes (D Nee, BIM; pers comm).

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Figure 6.4: Landings of crab by statistical rectangle by the Mayo and Donegal <12m fleets in 2004 (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission of BIM)

Peak fishing activity takes place from spring to early autumn during the months May to September, with activity declining between October and December, and fewer vessels operating from February to April. However, 6-8 boats now fish year round and the fishery is developing towards a 12-month operation.

Landings per unit effort (LPUE) data for the offshore fishery has been examined by Tully et al, (2006) while LPUE data for <12m vessels from the inshore fleet at Malin Head, Co. Donegal has been compiled by Meredith & Fahy (2005). A significant decline in LPUE has been observed in both sectors although the latter dataset suggests an increase in LPUE in the inshore fishery.

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6.2.2.2 Size composition Tully et al (2006) have presented data on the size composition of landings from the inshore fishery (Figure 6.5).

1200 Female crab 1996, 1000 n=6685 800

600

400

Number of crab 200

0 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 Carapace length (mm)

900 800 Female crabs 700 1997,n=5788 600 500 400 300

Number ofNumber crab 200 100 0 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 Carapace length (mm)

45 40 Male crabs 35 1996,n=232 30 25 20 15

Number ofcrabNumber 10 5 For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. 0 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 Carapace length (mm)

120 Male crabs 100 1997,n=651 80

60

40

Number ofNumber crab 20

0 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 Carapace length (mm)

Figure 6.5: Size composition of male and female crab in the inshore landings 1996/97 (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission of BIM)

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The current legal minimum landing size (MLS) of 130mm carapace width is of little significance as there is a market-driven “limit” of 140mm and the modal landing size is 155- 165mm. The size composition of crabs in both offshore and inshore fisheries remained constant between 1997-2001, during a period of increased fishing effort and increased landings.

Mean size at maturity is approximately 120mm carapace width and all crabs appear to be mature at about 140mm.

6.2.2.3 Changes in fishing area and effort between 1997 and 2005 Tully et al (2006) describe a shift in fishing activity between 1997 and 2005 with an increased effort in the north Mayo area. In 1997 effort by vessels <12m was concentrated to the north of Malin Head and to the west of Donegal (Figure 7.6). However, by 2005 the main area of fishing activity by these vessels had shifted to northwest Mayo and north Donegal (Figure 6.7).

Further data presented by Tully et al (2006) illustrates that the number of vessels in the northwest fishery declined significantly between 1997 and 2005 but that fishing effort in terms of the number of pots fished had increased significantly during the same period.

In 1997 there was an estimated 129 Donegal based boats fishing crab with a further 24 fishing out of north Mayo ports. By 2005 the combined number of vessels targeting the fishery from both north Mayo and Donegal had fallen to 60 including the large vivier boats fishing further offshore. There has therefore been a decline in the region of 50% in the number of vessels targeting crab during this period.

However, during this time the number of pots and the potential fishing effort has increased markedly. Data from a sample of vessels <12m in length, suggested that a total of 26,000 For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. pots in the inshore fleet had increased by 60% to almost 42,000 by 2005. Therefore, although there was a reduction in the number of vessels in the fishery, an increase in the number of pots per vessel had resulted in an overall increase in effort.

It is understood that he density of gear deployed in the north Mayo area has increased further since 2005 (D Nee, BIM; pers comm).

6.2.3 Other Inshore Fisheries Additional fishery activity in the inshore area incorporating the proposed dumpsite includes trawling and gill-netting. The main trawling activity is associated with the pelagic fishery for mackerel, horse mackerel and herring and usually takes place between September and December.

Gill-netting for other species (e.g. turbot, rays) is a much smaller fishery. The scope of gill- netting is limited by a restriction which prohibits their deployment to the north of 54o 30’, which lies approximately 5km to the south of the proposed dumpsite.

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Figure 6.6: Distribution of fishing in the <12m and vivier crab fisheries in 1997 (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission of BIM)

• Each rectangle, colour coded by Malin, Northwest Donegal and west Donegal is the approximate extent of fishing by one vessel. Mayo fishing effort is not included but was mainly distributed along the north and northwest of Mayo in 1997.

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Figure 6.7: Distribution of fishing in the <12m and vivier crab fisheries in 2004-2005 (from Tully et al, 2006; reproduced by permission of BIM) • Each rectangle, colour coded by Malin, Northwest Donegal and north Mayo is the approximate extent of fishing by one vessel

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6.3 AQUACULTURE

6.3.1 Introduction

There are three areas of shellfish production in the Sligo area – Drumcliff Bay, Sligo Harbour and Ballysadare Bay. The local industry is based on the production of bivalve molluscs and is the main area in Ireland for production of Manila clam (Tapes philippinarum or T semidecussatus); other species produced in the area are Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas), and Blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) (Plates 2-4). The location of areas licensed for shellfish production in the three bays and designated species are shown in Figure 6.8.

Plate 6.2: Manila clam

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 6.3: Blue mussel

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Plate 6.4: Pacific oyster

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

© Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence number 2010/20 CCMA/ Sligo County Council

Figure 6.8: Sites licensed for shellfish production in the Sligo area

6.3.2 Shellfish Production

6.3.2.1 Manila clam Manila clam is a non-native species and was introduced into Ireland in 1982 by the UCG Shellfish Research Laboratory at Carna. It is very similar to the native species, but with superior growth and survival rates. The Manila clam is also tolerant of a wide range of salinities but requires more wave-sheltered conditions for on-growing than mussel or oyster.

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The introduced clam was found to be easy to produce in hatchery conditions, resistant to disease and had a high survival rate. Adult clams are conditioned in the hatchery during the winter and then induced to spawn. The resultant larvae develop into spat or seed, the first recognisable adult stage. Seed from the hatchery is placed initially in off-bottom frames until they are ready for planting into on-growing areas known as “parcs”. Half-grown clams are planted out in shore plots where they bury in the substrate. Netting is used to retain the stock within a confined area and to protect against predators - crabs and birds, notably oystercatcher, can cause serious losses if growing areas are not adequately protected. The clams feed on phytoplankton and filter their food from the water through a siphon that is pushed up through the sediment. Harvesting takes place after a growth cycle of approximately 3 years and the stock is then purified and graded in preparation for the French market.

Shellfish production is now concentrated on production of Manila clam which was first cultivated in Drumcliff Bay in the early 1980s. There are now two main companies operating in Drumcliff Bay (Armada Shellfish Co Ltd & Atlantic Clams Ireland Ltd), and a single leading company in Sligo Harbour (Coney Island Shellfish Ltd). Four on-growing companies in Sligo Harbour work collectively through Coney Island Shellfish with licensed areas in the Cummeen Strand area. Growers are supplied with juvenile clam by a locally based hatchery, Lissadell Shellfish Co Ltd, which has also been in production since the 1980s and is the largest producer of clam seed in Ireland.

6.3.2.2 Oyster Pacific oyster is also a non-native species which do not spawn naturally in local waters. The industry therefore depends on specialist hatchery producers, such as Lissadell Shellfish, for the supply of seed for on-growing in coastal areas. Pacific oysters are usually grown in plastic mesh bags secured to metal trestles in the inter-tidal zone or low-water mark. Alternatively, juveniles may be laid directly on to the seabed plots or ‘parcs’ on the inter-tidal For inspection purposes only. area. The oysters feed on naturalConsent phytoplankton of copyright owner required and for anyreach other use.market size of 70-100g in 2-3 years.

There are licensed areas for oyster cultivation in both Drumcliff Bay and Sligo Harbour. There has been little production in recent years but Coney Island Shellfish has taken in some stock this year in 2012.

6.3.2.3 Mussel Mussel farming is based on the bottom culture of mussels laid as seed (or spat) for growing on to harvest size. The spat is dredged from known areas around the Irish coast where it has settled in abundance - this takes place between July and November. The seed is then transferred to prepared areas where it is re-laid at lower density to promote improved growth and meat content. Harvesting of mussels is generally between November and March but can occur throughout the year.

Mussel cultivation is very much constrained by the availability of seed mussel which has been unable to fully meet the demands of the industry through a period of rapid expansion. Most of the seed mussel for the industry is dredged from the south west Irish Sea, and a

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Seed Mussel Allocation Committee (SMAC) comprising representatives from BIM, DCENR, DARD, CBAIT and the Loughs Agency considers the supply and allocation of seed throughout Ireland.

Areas of Ballysodare Bay are licensed for mussel cultivation but there does not appear to have been any production in recent years.

6.3.3 Annual Production

Shellfish have been cultivated in the Sligo Bay area since the 1980s with designated licensed areas in Drumcliff Bay, Sligo Harbour and Ballysadare Bay. Production is focussed on Manila clam and this is the main area of clam production in Ireland. Smaller quantities of Pacific oyster are also produced and areas of Ballysadare Bay are licensed for bottom grown mussel, but there appears to have been no activity with this species in recent years. Clam production is also mainly from Sligo Harbour and Drumcliff Bay.

Annual production figures for 2006 to 2011 indicate that total annual shellfish production from the area in recent years has ranged from 183 to 285 tonnes with a value of up to €1½ million.

Table 6.2: Clam and oyster production in the Sligo Bay area, 2006-11 (Source: BIM)

Clam Oyster Combined Year Volume (t) Value (€) Volume (t) Value (€) Volume (t) Value (€) 2006 244 1,374,180 34 74,800 278 1,448,980 2007 158 934,000 25 40,000 183 974,000

2008 171 922,000 For inspection114 purposes only.373,000 285 1,295,000 Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. 2009 122 845,000 72 113,800 194 958,800 2010 130 825,000 68 148,400 198 973,400 2011 125 730,000 67 146,800 192 876,800

6.4 SHELLFISH WATERS DIRECTIVE The EC Shellfish Waters Directive (2006/113/EC) requires member states to designate waters that need protection in order to support shellfish life and growth. The Directive is implemented in Ireland by the European Communities (Quality of Shellfish Waters) Regulations 2006 (SI No 268 of 2006). It is designed to protect the aquatic habitat of bivalve and gastropod molluscs, and sets physical, chemical and microbiological requirements which designated waters must either comply with or endeavour to improve. Sligo Harbour and Drumcliff Bay have been designated as shellfish waters while Ballysadare Estuary/Bay has not been designated.

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Article 5 of the Directive provides for the establishment of Pollution Reduction Programmes (PRPs) for designated waters. PRPs for the designated shellfish waters in County Sligo were made by the Minister of DoEHLG in December 2009.

The directive will be repealed in 2013 by the EC Water Framework Directive, which will provide at least the same level of protection to shellfish waters

6.4.1 Classification of Shellfish Production Waters Shellfish production areas are classified by the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) based on monthly monitoring of shellfish for bacterial contamination in accordance with the terms of EU Regulations 853 and 854 (2004). Each harvest area is assigned Class A, B or C according to their sanitary quality using E coli as an indicator of sewage contamination. Shellfish from Class A areas may be marketed for direct human consumption, while product from Class B or C areas must be relayed or subjected to purification/heat treatment prior to marketing. The most recent classifications with regard to local production sites are shown in Table 6.3. Drumcliff Bay and Ballysodare Bay have previously held Class A designation for oyster and mussel respectively.

Table 6.3: Classification of designated bivalve mollusc production areas, 2012

Production Bed Current Boundaries Species Area Name Classification Oyster B

Raghly Point to Clam B Drumcliff Bay All beds Deadman’s Point Mussel B Cockle B For inspection purposes only. Deadman’sConsent Point of copyright owner required forOyster any other use. B Sligo Harbour All beds to Killaspug Point Clam B Killaspug Point to Ballysodare Bay All beds Mussel B Derkmore Point

Despite these controls, outbreaks of viral illness associated with shellfish consumption can occur. One of the principal agents related to such outbreaks is Norovirus (NoV) which causes gastroenteritis. Norovirus was detected in shellfish originating from Drumcliff Bay in 2010 but this has since been eradicated.

6.4.1.1 Brown Ring Disease Brown Ring Disease (BRD) is caused by Vibrio tapetis, a gram-negative, motile bacterium which can infect wild and cultivated clam species. BRD was detected in clams beds in Brittany in 1987 and has spread along the European Atlantic coast. It has recently been detected in stock from both Drumcliff Bay and Sligo Harbour but has not led to any major problems with the stock.

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6.4.1.2 Biotoxin and Phytoplankton Monitoring Samples of shellfish are routinely collected from aquaculture production sites as part of the National Biotoxin Monitoring Programme. These samples are analysed for the presence of toxins belonging to the Amnesic Shellfish Poison (ASP), Diarrhetic Shellfish Poison (DSP), Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) and Azaspiracid Shellfish Poison (AZP) toxin groups. Water samples from shellfish production sites are also collected for determination of the level of known toxin producing phytoplankton species and harmful/nuisance phytoplankton species.

6.5 SALMONID MIGRATIONS

6.5.1 Life Cycle

Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and sea trout Salmo trutta (Plates 5 and 6) both have marine and freshwater phases of the life cycle. Adult fish spawn in freshwater rivers where their young develop for 1-3 years before migrating to richer feeding grounds at sea. The maturing adult fish return to freshwater to breed after 1-2 years at sea. Migrations to and from local rivers will require these fish to pass through the dredging area in Sligo Harbour.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Plate 6.5 Atlantic salmon

Plate 6.6 Sea trout

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6.5.2 Salmon Conservation

The Atlantic salmon is listed in Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) as a species of European importance. EU member states are required to designate and manage sites for listed species or habitats as a part of wider measures to ensure the conservation of the habitats and species.

For several years fisheries scientists have been concerned about the declining numbers of salmon returning to the Irish Coast due to a persistent phase of low marine survival. Since 1996 a progressive series of conservation initiatives have been introduced to address this decline in stocks culminating in the closure of mixed stock coastal fisheries in 2007. Salmon stocks in Ireland are now managed on an individual river basis with the objective that each river must exceed its Conservation Limit for there to be any exploitation of fish to be permitted either by nets or rods.

The Scientific Sub-Committee of the National Salmon Commission provides annual advice on harvest options for individual rivers in order to ensure that there are sufficient spawning salmon remaining in each system to meet the required conservation limit. The leading salmon rivers in the Sligo fisheries district are currently open for salmon angling, although the Garravogue is subject to specific restrictions due to a restricted quota.

6.5.3 Local salmon/sea trout rivers There are a number of rivers discharging to Sligo Bay via Drumcliff Bay, Sligo Harbour and Ballysodare Bay, all of which support one or both of the migratory salmonids species, Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and sea trout Salmo trutta. The principal rivers in this regard are the Ballysodare, the Garravogue and the Drumcliff (Figure 6.9). Annual salmon catches in each of these river systems is shown in Figure 6.10. There is currently no commercial netting for salmon in the estuaries of these rivers. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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© Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence number 2010/20 CCMA/ Sligo County Council

Figure 6.9: Map of region showing principal salmonid rivers draining to Sligo Bay

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Figure 6.10: Annual salmon catch from principal local rivers, 2001-10 (Source: IFI)

6.5.3.1 Ballysodare River This is one of the leading and most productive salmon rivers in Ireland. Due to extensive conservation measures by the Ballysodare Fishing Club and IFI in recent years, there is now a substantial run of spring salmon in the river from April to mid June. This is followed by a

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:29 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1(vi) large grilse run which peaks in June – July. There is some substantial run of sea trout into the estuary on rising tides.

6.5.3.2 Garravogue River, Lough Gill and Bonet River system The Garavogue is only just over 4 km in length from Lough Gill to the tidal reach. It is predominantly fished on the east side of Sligo town close to where it flows out of. The river gets a run of spring fish early in the year and later a larger run of grilse. There are a series of angling clubs and privately owned fisheries throughout the system.

6.5.3.3 Drumcliff River and Glencar Lake This system has a good stock of sea trout and also a modest run of salmon, both early spring fish and summer grilse.

6.5.4 RECREATIONAL SEA ANGLING

6.5.5 Shore Angling There are strong currents in the navigation channel in Sligo Harbour but there good fishing is available in the channel from the north side between Rosses Point and Deadman’s Point for sea trout, mackerel, bass, dogfish, bull huss, ray and tope. The channel can also be accessed from the south side via Coney Island. The beach on the west side of Coney Island is also noted for bass, flounder and occasional ray.

6.5.6 Boat Angling Two charter boats based in Rosses Point and operate specifically in Sligo Bay and provide reef fishing and general inshore angling for tope, ray, spurdog, dogfish and occasional large skate. A number of boats based in Mullaghmore offer fishing in the wider Donegal Bay area. The Turbot Bank to the north west of the mouth of Ballysadare Bay is a recognised area for For inspection purposes only. turbot, thornback ray and blondeConsent ray. of copyright Another owner requiredreef isfor any‘the other Ledge’ use. which lies about 6.44km west of Coney Island with excellent pollack fishing. Ling, conger, tope and bull huss may also been taken in the vicinity while the area south of ‘Wheat Rock’ produces common skate to more than 150lbs (68kg).

Sligo Bay also provides good fishing opportunities locally for small boat angling and as this niche of saltwater angling increases in popularity so the fishing on Sligo Bay will be opened up to a wider public.

6.6 EEL & LAMPREY MIGRATIONS

6.6.1 Eel (Anguilla anguilla)

Eels have a catadromous life cycle - young eels (elvers) migrate from the sea into freshwater to feed and the resultant adults later return to sea to spawn. Juvenile eels are likely to be present in the local estuaries in the Sligo area during March and April. They are then believed to spend 10-15 years in freshwater systems before beginning their return migration

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to sea during the autumn period as silver eels. Silvers are therefore likely to be moving out through local estuaries during late autumn and early winter.

Eels have been fished commercially in the Ballysadare and Garravogue systems. However a long term and widespread decline in European eel stocks has been a matter of concern for some time leading to EC European Eel Regulation (EC) No 1100/2007 in 2007. This Regulation aims to establish measures for the recovery of the European eel stock in the form of Eel Management Plans for each eel river basin including Western River Basin District which includes all catchments draining to Sligo Bay. This will require Member States to reduce exploitation on all major eel river basins and must demonstrate that at least 40% of the biomass of adult eels are escaping to sea to spawn.

6.6.2 Lamprey

There are two migratory species of lamprey with marine phase in their life cycle, Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) and River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) – both are listed in Annexe 2 of the EC Habitat Directive. Adult sea lamprey enter the estuaries of rivers from April onwards, and migrate some distance upstream to spawn which usually takes place in late May or June.

The juvenile larval phase is variable but averages about five years with subsequent metamorphosis to the adult form takes between July and September. The timing of the main migration downstream also varies and relatively little is known about the adults after they reach the sea, where they have been found in both shallow coastal and deep offshore waters.

The life cycle of the River lamprey is very similar to that of the sea lamprey. Mature adults, having spent one to two years mainly in estuaries, stop feeding in the autumn and move For inspection purposes only. upstream into medium to largeConsent rivers, of copyright usually owner requiredmigrating for any other into use. fresh water from October to

December.

Spawning takes place during March and April. The juveniles live and feed within silty river substrates for up to 5 or 6 years before metamorphosing into fully formed adults and then migrating downstream to estuaries or the open sea for the adult feeding cycle.

The presence of eel and lamprey including (migratory phases) in local estuaries is summarised in Table 6.4.

Month Eel Sea lamprey River Lamprey

Jan Adults present in estuary

Feb Adults present in estuary

Mar Elvers moving in Adults present in estuary through estuary

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Apr Elvers moving in Adults moving Adults present in estuary through estuary upstream

May Adults moving Adults present in estuary upstream

Jun Adults present in estuary

Jul Silvers moving out Young moving Adults present in estuary through estuary downstream

Aug Silvers moving out Young moving Adults present in estuary through estuary downstream

Sep Silvers moving out Young moving Adults present in estuary through estuary downstream

Oct Adults present in estuary / Adults moving upstream

Nov Adults present in estuary / Adults moving upstream

Dec Adults present in estuary / Adults moving upstream

Table 6.4: Summary of migrations/presence of eel and lamprey in local estuaries at different times of year

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6.7 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

6.7.1 Potential Effects of Dredging and Disposal of Dredged Materials at Sea

6.7.1.1 Dredging The potential environmental impacts of marine dredging are summarised by MEMG (2003): a major effect will be the re-suspension of the bottom sediments and its effects on water turbidity and the liberation of any materials contained and sequestered within the sediments. The release of these materials into the water column will then have the potential for a biological effect. In turn, these effects have the potential to influence the fisheries and nature conservation value of the area. Specifically, in this assessment the impacts on shellfish aquaculture and salmonid migrations are considered.

The wider environmental effects of dredging have been summarised in a conceptual model (Figure 6.11). The pathway for potential impacts on shellfish aquaculture and salmonid migrations can be traced in this model.

6.7.1.2 Disposal of Dredged Materials at Sea The potential environmental impacts of disposal of dredged material are also summarised by MEMG (2003): the disposal of dredged material will have the potential to affect the water column, the bed conditions and their biota. Dumping of sediments will lead to increased turbidity in the immediate area and in the area of sediment plume dispersal. The release of any materials contained within the dredged material, may be the result of the changed chemical environment. Similarly, any organic matter in the sediment will create a water column oxygen demand. The deposited sediment will also change the nature of the bed sediment, if it is of a different particle size and it can have a smothering effect on the bed community as well as bringing new organisms to an area. Both of these features will affect the structure of the bed community and in turn the demersal and benthic fishes feeding on For inspection purposes only. that bed community. This assessmentConsent of copyright is concerned owner required primarily for any other use. with near and far-field impacts on commercial fishing activities in the area of the proposed dredge disposal site.

The wider environmental effects of dredging have been summarised in a conceptual model (Figure 6.12). The pathway for potential impacts on the commercial fishery can be traced in this model.

6.7.2 Socio-Economic and Conservation Aspects Whereas most of the above impacts of dredging and disposal of dredged materials relate to the ecological system, the resultant impacts on the uses and users of the marine environment are often of greater prominence and more public concern. These include the actual or perceived effects on socio-economic aspects such as fisheries, and aesthetic aspects including recreation and tourism.

Similarly, the perceived or actual effects on the conservation importance of an area will be of concern, especially where the habitats and species within and adjacent to the dredging and disposal areas are of importance (MEMG, 2003).

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Figure 6.11: The potential environmental impacts of marine dredging - a conceptual model (reproduced from MEMG, 2003)

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Figure 6.12: The potential environmental impacts of marine dredged material disposal - a conceptual model (reproduced from MEMG, 2003)

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6.7.3 Impact Hypotheses

6.7.3.1 Dredging Area Hydrodynamic modelling (refer to Appendix F.1(i) was undertaken as part of the study to investigate the impact of the water injection dredging and conventional dredging on the hydraulic regime of Sligo Harbour and on the sedimentation in the harbour area during the dredging operations. The modelling was used to examine the effect of the dispersion and fate of material spilled during the period of the dredging operations.

Tidal flow modelling indicated that: • while the proposed dredging will lower the level of the low water spring tides in the channel at Sligo, the high spring tide level will be unaffected by the proposed dredging works. • dredging will have an insignificant effect on the current flows in the harbour area except in the area of the channel and adjoining northern section of the harbour.

Dredging plume simulation modelling indicated that: • sediment is temporarily deposited along the sides of the channel and along the north shore of the harbour area during both the water injection and conventional dredging operations. • peak values of 20-70mm will be of a short duration and tend to occur during the turn of the tide. Following the water injection dredging much of the displaced material will ultimately settle in the vicinity of the Bungar Bank (to depths of less than 3mm) and the remainder will settle around the training walls and Cummeen Strand, again to depths of less than 3mm (refer to Figure 8 in Appendix F.1(i)). Following completion of conventional dredging activities, residual deposits of sediment will be confined again to the areas around the training wall and the northern shore of Sligo Harbour (refer to For inspection purposes only. Figure 1.29 in Appendix F.1(i)).Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

• away from these areas the deposition depth is small. • Sediment disturbed by dredging in the upper navigation channel will cause temporary increases in suspended sediment concentration in the lower 0.5m of water column at licensed aquaculture sites, but overall concentrations will remain relatively low. • During the conventional dredging operations, mean suspended sediment concentrations in the lower 0.5m of water column in the navigation channel will be within the recommended limits for salmonid waters as prescribed by the EC Freshwater Fish Directive. During the water injection dredging operations, mean suspended sediment concentrations in the lower 0.5m of water column in the navigation channel will be slightly above recommended levels, however the duration of these increases will be temporary, lasting only a few days.

6.7.3.2 Disposal Site Dispersion The impact of the dumping operation on sedimentation and suspended sediment loads in the area of the proposed dumping site outside Donegal Bay was assessed by undertaking a computational modelling exercise. Drogue measurements were also carried out to provide

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information on tidal currents in the surface, middle water column and bed layer during neap and spring tides – this data was used in calibration of the model.

The key findings of this exercise are: • tidal velocities in the area the dump site are small with peak spring tidal velocities of circa 0.16 m/s. • the majority of the material will be deposited and remain within 2km of the dumping site with only a small amount of material being transported further offshore by the residual current. • finer materials will be more easily re-suspended and will be gradually transported towards the open sea due to the residual current. • suspended sediment values beyond the immediate vicinity of the dumping operation will be minimal and the material will not be transported a significant distance before current speeds reduce at slack water and the material is deposited. • sediment transport due to wave action is likely to be limited due to the water depth of 90m. • tidal currents in the area of the dump site are weak and any material driven into suspension during large swell events will not be transported far from the site due to the weak tidal currents.

6.7.4 Potential Impacts of the Scheme

6.7.4.1 Dredging Area

Shellfish Aquaculture There will be no effects on aquaculture operations in either Drumcliff or Ballysadare Bays as the respective licensed areas in each bay are sufficiently isolated from any elevations in For inspection purposes only. suspended sediment or depositionConsent of of sediments copyright owner requireddue tofor anydredging other use. activities in Sligo Harbour.

Sediment deposition at licensed aquaculture sites in Sligo Harbour during the water injection dredging is predicted to be very low (<2mm) for the short duration of these operations.

During the conventional dredging operations sedimentation is also predicted to be very low (<2 mm) during dredging of both the upper and lower channel, while on completion of the works will be lower still (0-1 mm). Manila clam under cultivation at these sites are buried naturally in the substrate and will be unaffected by these negligible levels of sediment deposition. Sediment deposition at the aquaculture sites during and following water injection maintenance dredging operations will also be barely perceptible (0-1mm).

It can be seen that when dredging operations occur during spring tides, the suspended sediment concentration at each of the four sites shown in Figures 11-15 and 39-42 in Appendix F(i) rises quickly (around the period of slack water during each tide) but it also quickly returns back to the background values.

During spring tides, the suspended sediment concentrations reach relatively high peak values during each tide (when compared to the measured background in Table 1.4 in

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Appendix F(i)), however the actual duration of each “spike” is very short (as dredging only occurs for a short period each tide).

During dredging operations the concentration peaks, or “spikes” at any given point will typically last two to three hours, but with the highest values lasting for a period of only 15-30 minutes. The period between peaks (tides), when concentrations return back to baseline, or near baseline levels, will be much longer (around 9-10 hours). Cultivated shellfish buried in the substrate at these sites will be unaffected by these short term elevations in suspended sediment.

Based on these projections there will be no impacts on shellfish aquaculture in Sligo Harbour.

Salmonid Migrations Fish migrating through estuarine environments may frequently encounter high suspended sediment loads which do not appear to impede this behavioural activity. Atlantic salmon are known to move through the Severn Estuary where sediment concentrations in suspension can reach into several thousand mg/l for periods (Gibson, 1933). Simenstad (1988) suggests that salmonids are likely to have adapted physiologically to the turbid conditions that occur naturally within estuarine and harbour areas.

It has also been shown that while the concentration of suspended sediment in the water column is important, the duration of exposure is also a key factor (Newcombe & MacDonald (1991). Salmon and other fish species will exhibit avoidance reactions to locally adverse water quality and move away from the immediate vicinity of conditions. Simenstad and Nightingale (2001) have recommended a turbidity threshold of 200 mg/l in dredging areas to avoid the higher levels of suspended materials that are known to cause physical injury.

For inspection purposes only. Suspended sediment concentrationsConsent of copyrightin the owner lower required 0.5m for any otherof use.water column are predicted to remain relatively low throughout conventional dredging operations, however there will be significant suspended sediment levels of short duration occurring in the navigation channel during each tide for 2-3 days on the period of spring tides during and following the water injection dredging operations.

Adult salmonids are most likely to move upstream via the navigation channel where the mean concentration will be slightly higher (60mg/l) than the Fish Directive recommended limit of 25 mg/l for salmonid waters for a period of a few days during the water injection dredging. During the longer period of conventional dredging the mean suspended sediment concentrations throughout this time will be slightly higher than background, but will remain within the Fish Directive recommended limit of 25 mg/l for salmonid waters. Moreover, for all dredging activities suspended sediment concentrations are likely to be lower closer to the surface of the water column, which salmon more commonly utilise when swimming through estuarine and coastal waters.

Similarly, downstream migrant salmon and sea trout smolts will have no difficulty in dealing with the projected conditions in this respect.

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Projected levels of suspended sediment are within recommended guidelines and will not have an adverse effect the upstream and downstream migration of salmonids.

Eel & lamprey On migrating through estuarine environments these species may frequently encounter high suspended sediment loads which do not appear to impact on migrations.

Projected levels of suspended sediment are within recommended guidelines and will not have an adverse effect the upstream and downstream migrations of eels and lamprey.

Sea Angling Sediment deposition and suspended sediment concentrations are predicted to be negligible at recognised sea angling locations and outside of Sligo Harbour where all boat-based fishing activity takes place.

There will be no adverse effects on sea angling.

6.7.4.2 Dumpsite Area Based on the information generated by modelling of sedimentation and suspended sediment loads at the proposed dumping site, the impacts of dredge spoil disposal on bottom communities and fish have been discussed in Appendix F.1(ii).

North West Crab Fishery The principal conclusions with regard to crab ecology and implications for the crab fishery are: For inspection purposes only. • Many sessile and some mobileConsent of speciescopyright owner covered required for anyby other the use. dumped material will be lost,

notably where the material settles deepest after each dumping event. • This may include crab although there is evidence to show that smothering is unlikely to cause mortality in crabs, which are able to escape from under silt and migrate away from an area where dumping is taking place. • Given the relatively small footprint of the dumped material, the immediate loss of habitat to crustaceans will be negligible. • Given the relatively small area of impact relative to the surrounding habitats, there should be no significant negative impact on the bottom communities in the general Donegal Bay area. • The impacted seafloor will be re-colonised from the surrounding faunal community and will integrate as part of the overall habitat. • Re-colonisation should take place within a relatively short period of time (12-18 months).

Although there will be loss of habitat in the immediate area of dumping, the area will recolonise and recover within 12-18 months. This will not have any effect on the productivity of the north Mayo crab fishery either in the short term or in the long term.

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Other Fishery Activity It is concluded that fish may have reduced feeding opportunities in the area of the dumpsite due to short term habitat loss on the seabed and reduced productivity. However, fish in the vicinity of dredge disposal operations will avoid areas affected by the dredge plume.

There will be no impact on pelagic or demersal fisheries in the area either in the short term or in the long term.

6.8 MITIGATION MEASURES

6.8.1 Dredging Area

6.8.1.1 Water Quality Monitoring A monitoring programme is recommended to take regular measurements of dissolved oxygen (DO) and turbidity in Sligo Harbour during dredging operations. There parameters should be recorded in the immediate area of dredging and at key locations in the navigation channel and at shellfish aquaculture sites.

Turbidity is recorded in National Turbidity Units (NTU) and may be used as an indicator of the concentration of Suspended Solids (SS). A programme of calibration linking Turbidity (NTU) and SS (mg/l) should be carried out using solutions of known SS concentration made up from samples of the sediments to be excavated.

Triggers levels should be established which, if exceeded, would lead to immediate suspension of dredging until levels have recovered.

For inspection purposes only. 6.8.2 Dredge Disposal Site Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

6.8.2.1 Closure of site to fishing The dumpsite and surrounding area to a radius of 1km should be closed to commercial fishing activity during dumping operations. This will be to avoid any damage to or loss of fishing gear.

6.8.2.2 ROV monitoring of seabed ROV equipment should be deployed to verify settlement of dumped materials in the designated area.

6.8.2.3 Water Quality Monitoring A second monitoring programme is recommended for the dumpsite. This exercise would also take regular measurements of dissolved oxygen (DO) and turbidity at the site and surrounding area during dumping operations.

Triggers levels should be established for each parameter with readings to be taken along set transects emanating from the edge of the site.

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6.8.2.4 Crustacean Monitoring Programme A crustacean monitoring programme is recommended for the dumpsite to determine any impact on shellfish stocks and the recovery period – this should be based on the crab stock. It is suggested that individual fishermen should be contracted to fish at pre-determined locations in the region of the dumping site. Verification of fishing activity and catch would be required. The programme should include baseline monitoring of the site prior to dumping and resumed after dumping to examine recovery of the site

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REFERENCES

Gibson AM (1933) Construction and operation of a tidal model of the Severn Estuary. London, HMSO.

MEMG (2003). Group Co-ordinating Sea Disposal Monitoring. Final Report of the Dredging and Dredged Material Disposal Monitoring Task Team. Sci. Ser., Aquat. Environ. Monit. Rep., CEFAS, Lowestoft, (55): 52pp.

Meredith, D. & Fahy, E. (2005). The status of the inshore component of the northern brown crab cancer pagurus fishery, assessed from a time series of LPUE constructed from historical sources. Irish Fisheries Bulletin No 23. 14pp.

Newcombe C.P. & MacDonald D.D. (1991). Effects of Suspended Sediments on Aquatic Ecosystems. North American Journal of Fisheries Management, 11, 72-82.

Simenstad C.A. (1988). Effects of Dredging on Anadromous Pacific Coast Fishes. Summary and Conclusions from Workshop and Working Group Discussions.

Simenstad C.A. & Nightingale B. (2001). Dredging Activities: Marine Issues. White Paper. Research project T1803, Task 35. Washington State Transportation Centre.

Tully O, Robinson M, O'Keefe E, Cosgrove R, Doyle O and Lehane B, (2006). The Brown Crab (Cancer pagurus L.) Fishery: Analysis of the resource in 2004 - 2005. Fisheries Resource Series, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (Irish Sea Fisheries Board), Dun Laoghaire, Ireland Vol. 4, 2006, 48pp.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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APPENDIX F.1(vii)

ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT:

IMPACTS ON SEA USERS

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7.0 IMPACT ON RECREATIONAL USE OF THE SITE

7.1 BATHING WATERS

Rosses Point beach, just north of the entrance to Sligo Harbour, is a designated bathing water and also holds Blue Flag and Green Coast awards. The EPA monitors designated bathing waters in Ireland against standards in the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 (as amended 2011) which are derived from the EC Bathing Water Directive (76/160/EEC).

The commissioning of the new waste water treatment works in Sligo has had a significant positive effect on water quality within the harbour. There are not anticipated to be any negative impacts associated with the dredging activities within the harbour at Rosses Point beach; the dredging activities will not contribute to any increase in bacteriological activity and the influence of other parameters such as turbidity will not extend outside the confines of the harbour.

7.2 SAILING

Sligo has a vibrant marine recreation and leisure culture. Activities such as sailing, windsurfing, angling, motor boating and rowing are available in Sligo Harbour. Sligo Yacht Club is located at Rosses Point and hosts competitions in three classes: • Cruisers • GP 14s • Mirrors with two further classes, Optimist and Laser being promoted (Sligo Yacht Club, 2012). Sailing takes place 5 days a week between April and October with sailing activities concentrated outside the harbour in Sligo Bay.

For inspection purposes only. The World Championships for theConsent Mirror of copyright class owner were required held for any atother Rosses use. Point in 1987 and it also hosted the European Championships more recently in 2010. Rosses Point is one of the locations competing to again host the Mirror class World Championships in August 2013. In June 2011 over 100 boats competed in a fortnight long International and World Championship event for the Fireball class, which was held at Sligo Yacht Club.

These sailing events provide a significant boost to the local economy with sailing teams, their families, support staff and sponsors staying in local accommodation. The Fireball championships also coincided with a series of fringe events such as a Sea Shanty and Seafearing festival (Sligo Champion, 2011), which attracted significant numbers of local visitors who would not normally attend sporting events.

As the dredging is to take place within Sligo Harbour, outside the main sailing area, it is expected that there will be limited impacts to recreational sailing. During dredging, there will be an exclusion zone set up around the dredger for safety reasons. This will cause a temporary restriction to leisure craft using the area of the harbour within the immediate vicinity of the dredger.

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It is recommended that Sligo County Council sets up a liaison with Sligo Sailing Club and any other clubs with significant numbers of leisure craft users in the harbour to facilitate a safe co-existence between the dredger and leisure craft. Timetables showing the programmed dredging activity should be published locally giving adequate advance notice of the areas that will be affected.

7.3 CONCLUSIONS

7.3.1 Predicted Impacts

The proposed dredging at Sligo harbour will have no negative impacts on the existing tourism and retail industries in Sligo and should have a positive impact on both sectors upon completion of the works. During the dredging operations, there may be some temporary minor disruption to using leisure craft within the harbour, depending on the time of year the dredging takes place.

7.3.2 Mitigation Measures

Sligo County Council will establish a mechanism for liaison with the local sailing clubs and recreational users of the harbour. Harbour users will be informed of the programme of works anticipated over the dredging period, e.g. by newspaper notices and information boards at slipways and launching sites.

Of particular importance will be the requirement to coordinate with local sailing organisations to ensure that dredging activities do not pose a conflict with any scheduled major sailing events. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

7.3.3 Residual Impacts

Around 180 jobs directly linked to the port’s commercial activity will be safeguarded by the proposed dredging works. There is potential for increasing employment both directly and indirectly as it is hoped that the scheme will become a catalyst to boost tourism and commercial activity within Sligo city and the wider Sligo Harbour area.

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APPENDIX F.1(viii)

ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT:

EUROPEAN DIRECTIVES

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8.0 IMPACT ON WATER QUALITY – EUROPEAN DIRECTIVES

This section describes the potential impacts of the proposed dredging and dumping at sea in relation to water quality and the European Directives relating to it. The study area for this assessment is Sligo Harbour, the Garavogue Estuary1, the eastern section of Sligo Bay and the open waters west of Donegal Bay.

8.1 Overview of Existing Legislation

Water Quality data within the study area is monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Local Authority and the Marine Institute in response to the following legislation:

• EC Bathing Waters Directive (76/160EEC) • EC Shellfish Waters Directive (2006/113/EC) • EC Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) • EC Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC)

Monitoring data are then compared against environmental quality standards (EQS) which are designed to protect the environment and human health. Monitoring is also carried out for compliance with the EC Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC).

8.1.1 Bathing Waters The nearest designated bathing water to Sligo Harbour is Rosses Point, which is approximately 2km from the westernmost limit of the dredging area (Figure 8.1). Rosses Point is also a Blue Flag beach, although it temporarily lost its blue flag between 2008 and 2010 due to failing to meet the guideline (higher) standards for faecal coliforms in a small For inspection purposes only. minority of samples taken in 2007Consent ofand copyright 2008. owner required County for any otherSligo use. has two further designated bathing waters at and Mullaghmore, both of which are more than 5km from the proposed dredging area and are therefore outside the study area for this Environmental Report.

1 Garavogue is intentionally spelled a number of different ways in this section, dependent on the spelling used in the source documentation. E.g. the WFD waterbodies are named “Garavoge Estuary” and “Gill, tributary of Garavogue” in the Local Authority’s River Basin Management Plan.

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© Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence number 2010/20 CCMA/ Sligo County Council

Figure 8.1: Designated Bathing Water

8.1.2 Shellfish Waters In 2009, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government designated Sligo Bay and Drumcliff Bay (Figure 8.2) as shellfish areas in accordance with the Shellfish Waters Directive 2006/113/EC and the European Communities (Quality of Shellfish Waters) Regulations 2006 (as amended 2009).

Sligo Bay has been listed as a Class B (oysters and clams) bivalve mollusc production area in the Sea Fisheries Protection Authorities For inspection (SFPA) purposes only. publication “Classified Bivalve Mollusc Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Production Areas in Ireland” (2009)”. Drumcliff Bay has also been assigned Class B status as a production area for mussels, oysters, clams and cockles.

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© Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence number 2010/20 CCMA/ Sligo County Council Figure 8.2: Sligo Bay and Drumcliff Bay EC Designated Shellfish Waters

Class B areas are areas from which live bivalve molluscs may be collected, but placed on the market for human consumption only after treatment in an approved purification centre, or after relaying relaying in an approved relaying area, or after an EC approved heat treatment process.

The Sligo Bay designated shellfish Forwater inspection covers purposes only.an area of 8.6km². The dredging area Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. ranges from approximately 130 metres at its closest point to 500 metres from the designated area. Drumcliff Bay shellfish water is more than 3km at its closest point from the dredging area. The Marine Institute undertake water quality sampling at a station in the eastern portion of the shellfish area, within one of the licensed clam areas (Figure 8.2).

Compliance with the Directive is measured against achievement of shellfish water quality parameter values outlined in Annex I of the Shellfish Waters Directive (2006/113/EC) which was transposed into Irish law under the European Communities (Quality of Shellfish Waters) Regulations 2006 - Schedules 2 and 4. Schedule 2 Mandatory values must be fully achieved, while it must be endeavoured to achieve Guideline values (Schedule 4).

The Regulations in Schedule 4 include a Guide value for faecal coliforms in the shellfish flesh, but there is no standard or guide value for faecal coliforms in ambient water.

The DoEHLG (now DECLG) has published Pollution Reduction Programmes for both Sligo Bay and Drumcliff Bay which must be implemented by Sligo County Council.

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8.1.2.1 Sligo Bay Pollution Reduction Programme (PRP) The DoEHLG’s Sligo Bay Pollution Reduction Programme (PRP) for this designated shellfish area was signed into effect by the Minister in December 2009. Under this programme the Marine Institute is required to carry out a monitoring programme to monitor the condition of waters in the shellfish growing area and to verify compliance, or otherwise with the water quality standards outlined in Schedules 2 and 4 of the Quality of Shellfish Waters Regulations (S.I. No. 268 of 2006) The Marine Institute submits a report on water quality in respect of the designated area to the Minister each year, and brings to the attention of the Department any non-compliance with a water quality standard.

UV treatment to protect the shellfish waters has been in place on the primary discharge since the commissioning of the new WWTP in January 2009.

8.1.3 The Water Framework Directive Directive 2000/60/EC, establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy (the Water Framework Directive), was adopted by the European Parliament and Council in 2000. It was transposed into Irish law via the European Communities (Water Policy) Regulations, 2003 (S.I. No. 722 of 2003), as amended by the European Communities (Water Policy) (Amendment) Regulations, 2005.

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) creates a legal framework for the protection, improvement and sustainable management of rivers, lakes, transitional waters (estuaries), coastal waters and groundwater. It is an over-arching piece of legislation, superseding and updating existing legislation, and will be the most significant piece of legislation governing the water environment for the foreseeable future.

The aim of the WFD is to prevent deterioration of the existing status of waters and to ensure that all waters are classified as at least ‘good’ status (by 2015 in most cases, with all waters For inspection purposes only. achieving good status by 2027Consent at ofthe copyright latest). owner required A forwater any other bodyuse. must achieve both good

‘ecological status’ and good ‘chemical status’ before it can be considered to be at good overall status.

The proposed dredging area extends across two water bodies (Figure 8.3):

• Garavoge Estuary transitional water body (water body code: IE_WE_470-0100) • Sligo Harbour coastal water body (water body code: IE_WE_470-0000).

Two further water body boundaries are within close proximity to the proposed dredging area and may also be influenced by the proposed project. These are: • Sligo Bay coastal water body (code: IE_WE_450-0000) • Gill, tributary of Garavogue (code: IE_WE_35_4183)

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© Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence number 2010/20 CCMA/ Sligo County Council

Figure 8.3: Water Framework Directive Water Body Boundaries and Overall Status

Sligo Harbour also holds SAC, SPA and EC shellfish water designations. The water quality requirements for these areas relating to the Habitats, Birds and Shellfish Water Directives are discussed separately in Chapter 6, Intertidal & Marine Flora and Fauna, Chapter 5, Birds and Chapter 7, Fisheries and Aquaculture respectively.

For inspection purposes only. This section presents surface waterConsent ofquality copyright ownerinformation required for any for other the use. waters in the vicinity of Sligo

Harbour where the dredging works are proposed. The sources of the water quality information summarised in this chapter are:

• Water body status information arising from the Water Framework Directive monitoring programme and outlined in the Western River Basin Management Plan (2009-2015) (WRBD, 2010).

• Water quality information outlined in the EPA’s most recent water quality report, “Water Quality in Ireland 2007-2009” (EPA, 2011).

8.1.3.1 WFD Status Classifications

Environmental Quality Standards (EQSs) for classifying surface water status are established in the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations, 2009 (S.I. 272 of 2009). These regulations set standards for biological quality elements,

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The ‘ecological status’ of a water body is established according to compliance with the EQS for biological quality elements, physico-chemical conditions supporting biological elements and relevant pollutants.

The ‘chemical status’ of a water body is established according to compliance with the EQS for priority substances and priority hazardous substances.

As well as achieving good ecological and chemical status, a water body must achieve compliance with standards and objectives specified for protected areas, which include areas designated by the Bathing Water, Urban Waste Water Treatment, Shellfish Waters, Habitats and Birds Directives. Waters bodies that are compliant with WFD standards, but that contain protected areas that are non-compliant with protected area standards, are downgraded to ‘less than good’ status.

In order to establish the WFD status of water bodies, the EPA developed a new, WFD compliant monitoring programme which began in 2006. It builds on previous monitoring programmes and provides a comprehensive assessment of water quality and quantity. WFD status classifications apply at the water body scale and are based on several samples/surveys targeting the variety of parameters, including biological, physico-chemical, chemical and hydromorphological elements, required to establish WFD status. The current status classification is based on monitoring information collected between 2007 and 2009 (EPA, 2011). The final status classifications, based on the results of this complete monitoring cycle, i.e. 2007 to 2009, were reported in 2011 (EPA, 2011).

The status classification of transitional and coastal water bodies is primarily based on For inspection purposes only. information and data collected byConsent the of EPA, copyright Marine owner required Institute for any other and use. Central Fisheries Board (now

Inland Fisheries Ireland) between 2007 and 2009. In addition, assessments of the conservation status of protected areas carried out by NPWS are also taken into account.

8.1.4 The Marine Strategy Framework Directive

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) establishes a framework within which EU Member states are required to take the necessary measures to achieve or maintain Good Environmental Status (GES) in the marine environment by 2020. The Directive aims to protect Europe's marine waters by applying an ecosystem-based approach to the management of human activities, while enabling the sustainable use of marine goods and services for present and future generations. The main objectives of the Directive are to: • Protect and preserve the marine environment; • Prevent its deterioration; • Where practicable, restore marine ecosystems in areas where they have been adversely affected; • Prevent and reduce inputs in the marine environment with a view to reducing pollution; and

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• Ensure that there are no significant impacts on or risks to marine biodiversity, marine ecosystems, human health or legitimate uses of the sea.

Each Member State is required to produce a marine strategy. This involves defining GES, setting environmental targets and indicators, implementing monitoring programmes for ongoing assessment and developing and implementing Programmes of Measures to achieve or maintain GES.

The assessment of GES is undertaken by reference to eleven descriptors which are described as "qualitative descriptors”. These place an emphasis on:

• the maintenance of biological diversity • the non-introduction of non-indigenous species • the maintenance of fish stocks and elements of the marine food web within safe biological limits and at levels ensuring their long term abundance • the minimisation of eutrophication • the maintenance of sea floor integrity at a level that ensures that the structure and functions of the ecosystems are safeguarded and benthic ecosystems, in particular, are not adversely affected; • ensuring that the permanent alteration of hydrological conditions does not adversely affect marine ecosystems • ensuring that the levels of contaminants do not cause marine pollution or in the case of fish or other seafood used for human consumption do not exceed established by legislation • ensuring that the impacts of marine litter are minimised; and • ensuring that the impacts of underwater noise do not cause adverse effects on the marine environment

For inspection purposes only. 8.2 EXISTING WATER QUALITYConsent of copyright owner required for any other use.

8.2.1 Bathing Waters

Pre 2011, bathing water compliance assessment was based on five microbiological and physicochemical parameters as required under the 1992 “Quality of Bathing Waters Regulations”. From 2011 onwards, bathing water compliance is assessed under the requirements of the 2008 “Bathing Water Quality Regulations” which only monitors two microbiological parameters; Intestinal enterococci and Escherichia coli. For the 2011 bathing season, Rosses Point Beach achieved good water quality status and complied with both the EU guideline and mandatory values (Figure 8.4 - EPA, 2012). Rosses Point Beach also achieved good water quality status in the periods 2009 to 2010 and 2003 to 2006 but only had “sufficient” water quality status in the period 2007 to 2008.

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Source: Splash! www.bathingwater.ie Figure 8.4: Bathing Water Quality Status

The loss of the Blue Flag in 2008 was in part due to adverse weather conditions, but also the lack of adequate foul waste treatment for Sligo city up to that year. Since the commissioning of the Sligo waste water treatment plant in 2009, the water quality has risen significantly, allowing the Blue Flag to be reinstated in 2010 after the beach had achieved the guideline standard for two consecutive years. With the treatment plant operational, Rosses Point has comfortably exceeded both the mandatory and guideline water quality targets since 2009.

For inspection purposes only. 8.2.2 Shellfish waters Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Monitoring of seawater from the designated areas is carried out by the Marine Institute, who provided RPS with water quality measurement data acquired between 2007 and 2012. During this time, the water quality in the shellfish waters was generally very good and comfortably exceeded the guideline values for shellfish waters. The EPA “Water Quality in Ireland 2007-2009”, Chapter 5 “Quality of Estuarine and Coastal Waters” also confirms that levels of trace metals in shelfish tissue were also well within EU limits for this period. Monitoring for microbiological criteria such as levels of E. coli in shellfish waters as well as phytoplankton and marine biotoxins takes place on a more frequent weekly or monthly basis and no issues with microbiological tests have been reported in the 6 months to June 2012 (Marine Institute, 2012).

8.2.3 The Water Framework Directive The EPA Water Water Framework Status Update based on Monitoring Results 2007-2009 was published in 2011 and presents a review of Irish ambient water quality for the years 2007 to 2009.

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The water quality information in relation to transitional and coastal waters outlined in the report was generated by the EPA as well as other organisations including:

• Central and Regional Fisheries Boards (now Inland Fisheries Ireland); • Marine Institute; • Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA); • National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS); • Waterways Ireland; and • Irish Coast Guard.

A water body must achieve both good ‘ecological status’ and good ‘chemical status’ before it can be considered to be at good overall status. It must also be compliant with standards for protected areas in the vicinity. The extents of each of the water bodies have been shown above in Figure 8.3 (on page 8-5).

8.2.3.1 Garavoge Estuary As shown in Table 14.1, the Garavoge Estuary water body achieved “high” status in relation to many of the physico-chemical and biological parameters and is compliant with the standards established in the Habitats and Birds Directives. However, the Garavoge Estuary failed to achieve overall ‘high’ status due to below high status threshold values measured for Dissolved Oxygen and therefore was only classified overall as having achieved “good” status. The water body has been rated as being “1b - probably at risk” of failing to achieve “good” or “high” status by the end of the WFD cycle in 2015 and its overall objective in the RBMP is therefore to “protect” the existing status (or improve upon it).

8.2.3.2 Sligo Harbour Sligo Harbour water body is incorrectly reported in the wfdireland water maps tool as having achieved “high” status. The tool may not yet have been fully updated following last year’s For inspection purposes only. publication of the 2007-2009 results.Consent of copyright Although owner required the for anywaterbody other use. achieved high status for almost all the criteria (Table 8.1) and is compliant with the standards established in the Birds and Habitats Directives, it only achieved “good” status for its morphology due to its phytoplankton measurements. This status reduces the overall classification to “good” as the WFD operates on a One Out – All Out (OOAO) basis The water body has been rated as being “1a - at risk” of failing to achieve “good” or “high” status by the end of the WFD cycle in 2015 and its overall objective in the RBMP is therefore to “protect” the existing status (or improve upon it).

Table 8.1: Site Area Transitional and Coastal Waterbody Status Garavoge Estuary Sligo Harbour Sligo Bay Status Element Description Result Result Result Status Information Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen status High High High Molybdate Reactive Phosphorus status High High High Dissolved oxygen as per cent saturation status Good High High Biochemical Oxygen Demand (5-days) status High High High Macroalgae - phytobiomass status High High High

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Macroalgae - opportunistic algae status N/A N/A N/A Macroalgae - reduced species list status N/A N/A High Angiosperms - Seagrass and Saltmarsh status High N/A N/A Benthic Invertebrates status N/A N/A N/A Fish status Good N/A N/A Hydrology status N/A N/A N/A Morphology status Good Good High Specific Pollutant Status Pass N/A N/A Overall protected area status At least good At least good At least good Ecological Status Good High High Chemical Status Pass N/A N/A Surface Water Status N/A N/A N/A Extrapolated status N/A N/A N/A Donor water bodies N/A N/A N/A OVERALL STATUS GOOD GOOD HIGH N/A = not assessed Source: wfdireland.com& EPA (2011)

Table 8.2: Site Area River water body status Gill, Tributary of

Garvogue Status Element Description Result Status information Macroinvertebrate status High General physico-chemical status Good Freshwater Pearl Mussel / Macroinvertebrate status N/A Diatoms status N/A Hydromorphology status Good Fish status N/A Specific Pollutants status (SP) N/A Overall ecological status Good Overall chemical status (PAS) n/a Extrapolated status N/A Monitored water body YES Donor water bodies N/A OVERALL STATUS GOOD

N/A = not assessed ForSource: inspection wfdireland.com& purposes only. EPA (2011) Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

8.2.3.3 Sligo Bay As shown in Table 8.1, Sligo Bay water body achieved “high” status in relation to all of the physico-chemical and biological parameters and is compliant with the standards established in the Habitats and Birds Directives. The water body therefore was awarded “high” status overall. The water body has been rated as being “1a - at risk” of failing to achieve “good” or “high” status by the end of the WFD cycle in 2015 and its overall objective in the RBMP is therefore to “protect” the existing status.

8.2.3.4 Gill, Tributary of Garvogue As shown in Table 8.2, the Gill, Tributary of Garvogue water body achieved “good” status in relation to all but one of the physico-chemical and biological parameters. The water body therefore was awarded “good” status overall. The water body has been rated as being “2b – not at risk” of failing to achieve “good” or “high” status by the end of the WFD cycle in 2015 and its overall objective in the RBMP is therefore to “protect” (or improve) the existing status.

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8.2.3.5 Trophic Status The trophic status of transitional and coastal water bodies is assessed using the EPA’s Trophic Status Assessment Scheme (TSAS). This assessment is required for the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive and Nitrates Directive. The scheme compares the compliance of individual parameters against a set of criteria indicative of trophic state (DIN, MRP, chlorophyll, macroalgae, dissolved oxygen). These criteria fall into three different categories which broadly capture the cause-effect relationship of the eutrophication process, namely nutrient enrichment, accelerated plant growth, and disturbance to the level of dissolved oxygen normally present;

• Eutrophic water bodies are those in which criteria in each of the categories are breached, i.e. where elevated nutrient concentrations, accelerated growth of plants and undesirable water quality disturbance occur simultaneously; • Potentially Eutrophic water bodies are those in which criteria in two of the categories are breached and the third falls within 15 per cent of the relevant threshold value; • Intermediate status water bodies are those which breach one or two of the criteria; • Unpolluted water bodies are those which do not breach any of the criteria in any category.

“Water Quality in Ireland 2007-2009” (EPA, 2010) has published the most recent trophic status for the transitional and coastal waterbodies around Ireland. Since the previous report in 2005, five water bodies have improved from intermediate to unpolluted status and these include the Garavogue Estuary, Sligo Harbour in addition to Kinsale Harbour, McSwyne’s Bay and the Lower Liffey estuary. This marked improvement in status is directly attributable to the commissioning of the Sligo WWTP.

8.2.3.6 Dissolved Oxygen Levels For inspection purposes only. Low levels of Dissolved OxygenConsent (DO) of copyright can owner have required adversefor any other use.effects on aquatic organisms including slower growth rates, impaired immune response and, in severe cases, mortality. DO levels are classified as follows: • Anoxic (0 - 0.5 mg l-1) • Hypoxic (0.5 – 2.0 mg l-1) • Deficient (2.0 – 6.0 mg l-1) • Sufficient (6.0 – 10.0 mg l-1) Sligo Harbour water body has been measured as having “sufficient” Dissolved Oxygen levels during sampling. The Garavogue Estuary has had some “deficient” results which lowered its WFD DO status to “good”.

8.2.4 The Marine Strategy Framework Directive

An Initial Assessment of Irish marine waters to establish environmental targets and indicators was due to be completed in July 2012, however this report has not yet been published by the Marine Institute or DECLG. The monitoring programme and POMS (programme of measures is not due to be implemented until 2014/2015 therefore this section will assess the

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8.3 Sediment Quality

8.3.1 Dredging Area – Sediment Chemical Properties

As the approximately 250,000 cubic metres of dredged material is to be disposed of at sea, as described in Attachment B.1 sediment contamination testing was undertaken for fourteen marine sediment samples taken within and adjacent to the dredging area, to ensure that disturbance of these sediments would not pose a threat of releasing contaminants.

8.3.1.1 Sediment Quality Results

The results of the granulometric analysis showed that the surface sediments in the inner harbour area (Stations 1 – 4) were typically made up of fine mud with varying amounts of fine sand. Consistent with the vibrocore results, the sediment samples collected in the outer harbour had increasingly higher grain size content (Stns 5 – 12).

The results of the contamination analysis showed compliance with the guideline limits proposed by the Marine Institute and DCMNR in the publication “Guidelines for the assessment of dredge material for disposal in Irish Waters” (2006) with the exception of Stn 1, which had elevated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) levels.

PAHs are one of the most widespread organic pollutants occurring in oil, coal and tar deposits and are produced as a by-product of fuel burning. In addition to their presence in fossil fuels they are also formed by incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels such For inspection purposes only. as wood, coal, diesel, fat, tobaccoConsent ofso copyright they owner can required come for any from other use. many sources. PAHs in the environment are found primarily in soil sediment, but can also be found in water.

The results of the sediment quality sampling and analysis programme were sent to the Marine Institute for their review and comment. The Marine Institute reverted with a requirement to undertake additional PAH analysis. The results of the additional analysis are also presented in Attachment B.1. These additional results were sent to the Marine Institute for further review and comment.

The most likely source of the elevated PAH levels was a ship which caught fire in the upstream portion of the port. Although the ship has been removed, residual contamination may remain in the upper part of the channel. The sampling results confirm that this contamination is localised only to the immediate area of the channel surrounding the former location of the vessel.

As the upper part of the channel, above the Barytes and Deepwater jetties is only in use by recreational vessels which have a much smaller draft than the commercial vessels, there are no immediate requirements to dredge this part of the channel. Therefore, in consultation with

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:30 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1 (viii) the Marine Institute it was agreed that dredging would only take place alongside and downstream of the commercial jetties, thus avoiding disturbance of any of the sediments in the upper part of the channel (thereby excluding the channel from dredging between Stations 1-4).

During the course of consultations with local fishermen, concerns were raised regarding contamination of the sediments by the former operation of the untreated sewage outfall at Finisklin, prior to the commissioning of the new waste water treatment works. The analysis of the sediments shows that the organic content within all the samples, including those within the port, is low. Consultation has been held with the Marine Institute who have confirmed that the history of the site has been taken into consideration in setting the parameters for testing. The results of these tests show that the suspension of sediments in the navigation channel during the dredging process pose no chemical risk to the sensitive habitats within the harbour nor the habitats at the proposed dump site. The physical impacts of the sediments (e.g. smothering, increased turbidity) on the receiving area are considered in more detail in Appendix F.1(ii).

The results of the radiological analysis undertaken by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland have confirmed that the sediments to be dredged pose no radiological risk.

The Marine Institute have confirmed that the sediment quality of the material to be dredged is clean and suitable for disposal in Irish Waters (pers comm. Margot Cronin, Marine Institute 15 February 2010), assuming that no alternative uses or disposal methods can be found for the material (addressed in Attachment C.1).

8.3.2 Dredged Sediments Properties Conclusions

For inspection purposes only. Physical, chemical and radiologicalConsent testing of copyright of owner the required sediments for any other withinuse. the navigation channel at

Sligo Harbour have been undertaken to determine whether these sediments are suitable for dredging and dumping at sea. The results of the tests have shown that the sediments within the dredging area are clean and free from contamination and will not pose any significant impact on the sensitive habitats and species within both the dredging area and the proposed offshore dump site.

Mitigation measures to reduce the amount of sediment placed into suspension during dredging activities and thus limit the physical impact of the dredging activity within Sligo Harbour are described in Attachment D.3 and Appendix F.1(i).

8.4 Potential Impacts during Dredging

8.4.1 Short term increase in Suspended Sediment and Turbidity The scale and extent of increases to suspended sediment during dredging operations are described in detail in the dispersion modelling presented in Appendix F.1(i). The modelled results show that during dredging, the suspended sediment concentration rapidly increases

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:30 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1 (viii) during slack water as the tide turns, but quickly returns back to the background values once current speeds pick up again. Although the concentration reaches relatively high values, the periods during which this occurs are very short in duration. The period during which suspended sediment concentrations are elevated within any of the sensitive areas within the harbour will last on average up to two hours, with the highest peak values lasting 15-30 minutes. The period between peaks, where concentrations return to baseline levels, will be much longer, around 10 hours per tide.

The areas which experience the greatest peaks in suspended sediments are along the northern shore of the harbour, the eastern shore of Coney Island and the area south of the training wall.

Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) for certain pollutants in surface waters in Ireland are outlined in the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations, 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009). The purpose of the EQS is to limit the quantity of certain pollutants in surface waters in order to achieve the environmental objectives established for waters by Directive 2000/60/EC, the Water Framework Directive (WFD).

However, an EQS is not established in these Regulations for suspended sediments. Article 5 of the Shellfish Directive (2006/113/EC) and section 6 of the Quality of Shellfish Waters Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 268 of 2006) require the development of Pollution Reduction Plans (PRPs) for designated shellfish areas in order to improve water quality in designated shellfish areas and to achieve compliance with water quality parameter values outlined in Annex I of the Directive and Schedules 2 and 4 of the Regulations. Imperative (I) values must be fully achieved while it must be endeavoured to achieve guideline values (G).

There are no guideline values for suspended solids established in the Regulations, however the mandatory value states: For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. “A discharge affecting shellfish waters must not cause the suspended solid content of the waters to exceed the content in unaffected waters by more than 30%”

This measure can be considered conservative as it is designed to protect shellfish life and growth and shellfish are sensitive to suspended solids as shellfish species are generally bottom dwellers and/or filter feeders.

In order to be compliant with the shellfish mandatory value for suspended solids, suspended solid concentrations much not be raised more than 30% above background concentration. This standard is expressed as a 75-percentile, i.e. the value below which 75 percent of the observations may be found.

Available suspended solid monitoring results from the Marine Institute water quality monitoring station in Sligo Harbour (listed in Table 11.1 in Chapter 11) demonstrate that the background levels measured at the monitoring station in Sligo Harbour have varied between <2mg/l and 72mg/l between 2009 and 2011.

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If we eliminate the highest 25% of readings, the 75th percentile level for suspended sediments is between 12.0-25.6mg/l. Although there will be some very short term peaks in suspended sediments, the modelling in Chapter 11 shows that concentrations will return to background levels within a short period of time. The predicted average increase in suspended sediments at the Marine Institute water quality sampling point is 10mg/l, therefore proposed dredging works will not cause water quality issues in this area to an extent that would constitute a non-compliance with the Shellfish Regulations.

The localised nature of the impact and the short duration of dredging activity mean that the impact to water quality within Sligo Harbour is anticipated to be of minor adverse impact over a short term period.

8.4.1.1 Mitigation and Residual Impact Solids will be monitored during the dredging. If it is deemed that these concentrations are rising above predicted concentrations, then a decision can be made to slow the dredging rate in order to reduce the level of solids escapement.

The short term temporary suspension of solids during dredging will not have any significant impact on the receiving area in terms of meeting the requirements of the EC Bathing Waters Directive , the EC Shellfish Waters Directive or the EC Water Framework Directive.

8.4.2 Potential for the Spread of Contaminated Dredged Material As described above in 8.3.1.1 “Sediment Quality Results”, the material to be dredged has been extensively tested for levels of contamination by a certified laboratory under the supervision of the Marine Institute. All of the sediment samples within the area to be dredged have contaminant levels beneath the lower level2.

For inspection purposes only. There are therefore no significantConsent of copyrightimpacts owner torequired water for any otherquality use. arising from contaminated dredged material anticipated for this scheme. No mitigation is therefore necessary.

8.4.3 Potential for impacts to Dissolved Oxygen and Nutrients Dissolved oxygen concentrations may decrease in the vicinity of the dredge during the dredging operation due to increased levels of suspended sediment. Levels of organic material within the sediment to be dredged have been measured as low, which lowers the risk of DO reduction. There may also be low levels of nutrients within the silty surface layer of sediment which may be resuspended and therefore may enter the water column. Again these events will be short-lived and mostly confined to the dredge area. Any changes outside of the dredge area will be minimal and transient, returning to background levels following completion of the dredge. The impact to water quality in terms of dissolved oxygen levels and nutrient levels is anticipated to be of minor adverse impact over a short term period.

2 The lower level (Level 1) defines a concentration (i.e. guidance value) of a contaminant in sediment below which biological effects would not be anticipated (Cronin et al, 2006).

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The dredging will not have any significant impact on the receiving area in terms of meeting the requirements of the EC Bathing Waters Directive, the EC Shellfish Waters Directive or the EC Water Framework Directive.

8.4.4 Potential for impact on Water Quality in the wider Sligo Bay area As described in Chapter 11 “Coastal Processes” there will be temporary short term increases in suspended sediment within the harbour during the dredging period. Due to the enclosed nature of Sligo Harbour, which only drains into Sligo Bay through the channels to the north and south of Coney Island, these increases will be almost entirely confined to the harbour area. Some areas, near the drainage channels will experience very slight increases in suspended sediment of less than 5mg/l during the dredging. The potential impact on water quality in the wider Sligo Bay area is therefore regarded to be insignificant and there will be no impact on the designated bathing waters at Rosses Point due to the dredging project.

8.4.5 Accidental Spillages during Dredging Operations During dredging, there is the potential for accidental spillages from the dredger itself, such as fuel oil. However, it will be a requirement of the contract documents that operational safeguards in regards to best environmental practice will be in place by the dredging operator who must also demonstrate specific experience in working in environmentally sensitive areas. With all necessary safeguards in place, the anticipated potential impact will be of minor adverse significance.

8.4.6 Impact from Dumping on MSFD descriptors The impacts on the biological diversity and the structure and function of the benthic ecosystems of the proposed disposal of the dredged material at an offshore dump site have been described more specifically in Appendix F.1(ii). No significant impact is predicted to occur on these descriptors as a result of the dumping operation. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

There is a very small possibility of the introduction of non-indigenous species to the offshore dump site if the dredging plant has previously been in operation outside of Ireland. However with mitigation measures in place, the potential impact will be insignificant.

The impacts of the proposed dredging and dumping on the fish stocks, the wider marine web and the safeguarding of seafood for human consumption are described in more detail in Appendix F.1(v). With mitigation measures in place, such as the avoidance of known spawning areas, the potential impact will be insignificant.

The material which will be dumped at sea has similar physical properties to the receiving environment (fine grained, with some coarser sand and gravel) and has been demonstrated to be free from contaminants. The dumped sediments will not disperse widely from the dump site and will form a “pile” on the seabed up to 200mm deep. This distribution will have no effect on the local hydrological conditions. The risk of pllitionfrom accidental spillages are discussed above in 8.4.5. The risk of marine pollution or eutrophication from the dredged sediments themselves is considered to be insignificant. All rubbish to be disposed of from

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EPA Export 16-06-2015:23:32:30 Sligo Harbour Dredging Dumping at Sea Licence Application Appendix F.1 (viii) the dredger vessel will be handled and disposed by a licensed waste disposal contractor and littering from the vessel will not be permitted.

The potential for noise impact arising from the dredging and dumping activities is considered within the marine mammals impact assessment in Appendix F.1(iii). The adherence to best practice and use of a Marine Mammal Observer will aid in mitigating against impacts within the receiving area. The deepening of the navigation channel and the transport of the dredged material to the dump site will increase vessel activity in the area with an associated increase in underwater noise and risks of collisions for marine mammals, but it is considered that the impacts of this will not be significant on both the individual and population level for marine mammal species that frequent the area.

8.5 Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact The port of Sligo will already have an oil spill contingency plan in place as required by the Sea Pollution Act 1999. The Irish Coast Guard is the lead authority designated by the Minister of Transport to approve plans and levels of response and resources required to comply with the requirements of this Act. The appointed dredging contractor will be required to prepare and submit an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) which will be implemented to reduce or eliminate, where possible, the likelihood of any impact to the marine environment during construction. The EMP must include the procedures which will be put in place to deal with any accidental spillages. With these measures in place, the residual impact of accidental spillages is anticipated as of negligible significance.

A monitoring programme, to include monitoring of the benthos, crustaceans and water quality at the proposed dump site has been outlined in Attachment G.1.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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