Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

Environmental Constraints Study

June 2011

MGE0262/1.3/CR0003

rpsgroup.com/ireland

MGR0256CR0001

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... III 1 INTRODUCTION...... 1 1.1 BACKGROUND ...... 1 1.2 STUDY AREA ...... 2 1.3 POTENTIAL FLOOD ALLEVIATION MEASURES ...... 2 1.4 SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS STUDY ...... 3 2 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS ...... 4 2.1 LEGISLATIVE, PLANNING AND POLICY CONSTRAINTS ...... 4 2.2 STAKEHOLDER CONSTRAINTS ...... 6 2.3 SOCIO -ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS ...... 9 2.4 ARCHAEOLOGY , ARCHITECTURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE CONSTRAINTS ...... 12 2.5 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL CONSTRAINTS ...... 17 2.6 ECOLOGY CONSTRAINTS ...... 20 2.7 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY CONSTRAINTS ...... 26 2.8 SOILS , GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY CONSTRAINTS ...... 30 2.9 OTHER CONSTRAINTS ...... 33 3 CONCLUSIONS ...... 37 4 REFERENCES ...... 38

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1 Clare River (Claregalway) Catchment Figure 1.2 Extent of the Clare River (Claregalway) Study Area Figure 2.1 Bord Gáis distribution network Figure 2.2 Archaeology constraints Figure 2.3 Landscape Sensitivity and Character Areas of County Galway (Source: Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015) Figure 2.4 Focal Points/Views in Galway County (Source: Galway County Development Plan 2009- 2015) Figure 2.5 Landscape Value Rating of Galway County (Source: Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015) Figure 2.6 Designated Sites within the Constraints Study Area Figure 2.7 10km Squares M33, M34, M43 and M44 Figure 2.8 Water Quality monitoring points Figure 2.9 Determination of WFD Ecological status for surface waters Figure 2.10 WFD River water body ecological status Figure 2.11 Soils within the Study Area Figure 2.12 Geology, karst features and quarries within the Study Area Figure 2.13 Aquifer classification and GSI wells within the study area Figure 2.14 Traffic constraints within the study area Figure 2.14 Strategic Noise Map for N18 Figure 2.15 Air Quality Zones 2009

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.1 Possible Alleviation Measures for the Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme Table 2.1 Legislation, Planning and Policy Requirements with Potential to Influence the Proposed Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme Table 2.2 Stakeholders Consulted and responses received at date of publication Table 2.3 Population Structure, Employment Trends and Employment Levels for the Three Main Electoral Divisions Table 2.4 Recorded Monuments and Places (RMP) located within the constraints area Table 2.5 Built Heritage sites (BH) located within the constraints area Table 2.5 Designated Sites within the Constraints Area Study Area and their Conservation Objectives Table 2.6 Flora Atlas Data Table 2.7 Fauna Recorded within the Study Area Table 2.8 WFD Surface water monitoring locations Table 2.9 Mineral Sites Located in the Study Area Table 2.10 Quarries Located in the Study Area Table 2.11 Karst features within study area Table 2.12 GSI Well Data

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The scope of this Report is to identify and map environmental constraints within the study area of the Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme. The purpose of completing this exercise is to identify where such constraints may impact upon specific flood relief measures and in so doing will inform both the stakeholder consultation and design process for the scheme from an environmental view point.

The constraints tabulated below have been identified as being of primary importance. This does not suggest that other constraints identified elsewhere in the Report are unimportant, rather that there are some constraints, which are identified as being of greater significance in the overall development of the project.

CATEGORY SUB SOURCE CONSTRAINTS MAP/TABLE CATEGORY REFERENCE

Socio Land Use & Galway County • Existing land uses Figure 2.1 Economic Communities Development Plan • Fisheries Table 2.3 2009 – 2015 • Clare River Walkway Stakeholder Project constraints

Angler’s Guide to Game Fishing in the Western Fisheries Region Material assets • Existing road network – Figure 2.1 impact on commuters Figure 2.14 • Energy infrastructure – overhead & Table 2.12 underground network e.g. ESB lines, Bord Gáis supply • Water mains and private wells • Proposed new WWTP at Claregalway • Local authority licensed discharges to the Clare River Landownership • Liaison with local and access landowners in relation to works proposed • Storage or disposal of excavated materials Archaeology & Legislative • Three Protected Figure 2.2 Cultural Constraints Structures Heritage • Two NIAH structures Tables 2.4.1 & • Galway County 19 Archaeological 2.4.2 Development Plan Heritage sites (including 2009 – 2015 52 separate RMP listings and a national monument) Assessment by • Three Areas of Irish Archaeological Archaeological Potential Consultancy Landscape & Galway County
2 protected focal points Figures 2.4 Visual Development Plan & views 2009 – 2015

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CATEGORY SUB SOURCE CONSTRAINTS MAP/TABLE CATEGORY REFERENCE

Ecology Legislative • Compliance with the Figure 2.6 Constraints Habitats and Birds Directives and National Tables 2.5 - 2.7 legislation Stakeholder • Designated habitats and constraints species Protected Flora and Fauna NPWS databases • Fisheries – salmonids, lamprey Published literature
Local Ecological Important Areas Hydrology & Stakeholder
Important fisheries Figure 2.8 Water Quality Constraints zones
Compliance with the Table 2.2 Water Framework Legislative Directive constraints

Western River

Basin Management Plan

Soils/Geology/
Aquifer vulnerability Figures 2.11 - Hydrogeology
Surface water and 2.13 groundwater interaction Tables 2.9 – 2.12 Other Waste Requirement to handle, Constraints Management store, remove and dispose of waste material in accordance with relevant waste management legislation Traffic - Crusheeny Bridge Figure 2.14 measures will lead to traffic diversions - Local roads in Montiagh North and Montiagh South townlands – Raising sections of access roads and increasing the size of a culvert in Montiagh South will cause traffic delays and possible diversions - Construction of the footbridge at Claregalway will cause traffic delays and disruption Noise
Galway County Council Figure 2.15 Draft Action Noise Plan 2008
Noise generated by the timing of works associated with the

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CATEGORY SUB SOURCE CONSTRAINTS MAP/TABLE CATEGORY REFERENCE

implementation of alleviation measures may impact on residential, commuting and visitors to the study area. Air
Key Indicators of Figure 2.16 Ambient Air Quality in Ireland
Works associated with implementation of flood alleviation measures and the machinery involved may generate emissions and dust e.g. bridge works, storage and removal of waste material etc.

MGE0262RP0001 v Rev F01 Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme Stage 1 - Environmental Constraints Study 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

In May 2011 the Office of Public Works (the OPW) appointed RPS as environmental consultants for the Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme. The Clare River and main tributaries form part of the Corrib Clare Arterial Drainage Scheme, which was constructed in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, for which the OPW have a statutory maintenance responsibility. These original Arterial Drainage Scheme works involved substantial widening and deepening of the existing channel and tributaries with the purpose of providing outfall for the drainage of agricultural lands.

In March 2010 the OPW commissioned Ryan Hanley Consulting Engineers to undertake two studies. The first related to the Clare River and its main tributary, the Abbert River, within a study area from Corofin to Lough Corrib. The study was commissioned as a result of severe damage and disruption caused by flooding in the area in November 2009 ( Image 1.1 ). The second study related to the townlands of Carnmore East and Cashla on the R339 Galway to Monivea Regional Road, which was also affected by flooding in November 2009. These studies should be read together, and are referred to as the Engineering Studies for the remainder of this report. Further details of the recommendations resulting from these studies are set out in Section 1.3.

Image 1.1 Flooding at Claregalway in November 2009 (Source: Dr. Martin O’Grady, Inland Fisheries Ireland, November 2009)

The OPW are now progressing the Flood Relief Scheme to design stage and the required environmental outputs associated with the Scheme are set out in three distinct stages as follows:

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Stage 1

- Environmental Constraints Report - Public Information Day

Stage 2

- Environmental Assessment of Viable Options - Screening for Appropriate Assessment

Stage 3

- Appropriate Assessment/Natura Impact Statement (if deemed necessary following Appropriate Assessment Screening). - Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) - Public Information Day

This Report fulfils one required element of Stage 1 – to complete an Environmental Constraints Study for the proposed Flood Relief Scheme.

1.2 STUDY AREA

The Clare River and its tributaries form part of the Corrib catchment, located within Hydrometric Area 30, and within the Western River Basin District. The Clare River rises above the town of Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, and the main tributaries are the Dalgan and the Sinking Rivers, north east of Milltown, Co. Galway. On its southerly course towards Lough Corrib, the Clare River flows through Milltown; it then continues to flow west of Tuam where the River Nanny confluences with the Clare River at Weir Bridge; next it flows through Corofin, and south of Corofin, the Abbert River confluences with the Clare River; the next largest town is Claregalway which the Clare flows through before entering Lough Corrib at Coarsefield. Figure 1.1 shows the extent of the entire catchment.

The principal study area for the proposed Flood Relief Scheme will be the channel, floodplain, and immediate surrounding areas of the Clare River extending along the main channel from its outfall in Lough Corrib to approximately one kilometre upstream of Crusheeny Bridge, and including existing tributaries and flood paths where flood mitigation measures have been identified in the Engineering Reports. Figure 1.2 shows the extent of the study area.

1.3 POTENTIAL FLOOD ALLEVIATION MEASURES

The Engineering Studies commissioned by the OPW led to the identification of a programme of flood alleviation measures to be implemented to eliminate or reduce the impact of flooding from an event of similar magnitude to that of November 2009. These measures are to be considered as the Scheme progresses to design stage. This programme of measures is set out in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1 Possible Alleviation Measures for the Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme 1 Area Name Recommended measures Lough Corrib to Cruaghmore Bridge Do nothing Montiagh South Raising of 1km of road and upsizing of an existing road culvert Montiagh North Raising of 1.6 km of road Claregalway Village Installation of an additional flood eye at Claregalway Bridge Regrade Clare River channel upstream of and under the Claregalway

1 Ryan Hanley, June 2010. Study to identify practical measures to address flooding on the Clare river. Volume 1- Report & Volume 2 Appendices. Ryan Hanley, August 2010. Study to identify practical measures to address flooding at Carnmore/Cashla.

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Legend

Environmental Constraints Study Area

Clare River Surface water rivers & streams

River Water Body

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0 50 100

Kilometers

Client

Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

Title ClaregalwayClaregalway

Catchment Map

Figure 1.1 Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, Mervue, Galway, Ireland T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 400299 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland Issue Details Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262

Checked by: BnC File Ref.

Approved by: WM MGE0262MI0001F01

Scale: N.T.S. Drawing No. Rev.

Date: June '11 MI0002 F01

Notes 1. This drawing is the property of RPS Group Ltd. It is a confidential document and must not be copied, used, or its contents divulged without prior written consent. 2. All levels are referred to Ordnance Datum, Malin Head. 3. Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence EN 0005011 ©Copyright Government of Ireland.

Legend

EnvironmentalEnvironmental ConstraintsConstraints StudyStudy AreaArea

ClareClare RiverRiver

RRR RRR

iii iii vvv vvv

eee eee

rrr rrr

CCC CCC

lll lll aaa aaa

rrr rrr eee eee

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CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge ClaregalwayClaregalway ClaregalwayClaregalway 100 ClaregalwayClaregalway 0 50 Kilometers

Client

Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

Title

Environmental Constraints Study Area

Figure 1.2 Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, Mervue, Galway, Ireland CashlaCashla T +353 91 400200 CashlaCashla F +353 91 400299 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland CarnmoreCarnmore Issue Details Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262

Checked by: BnC File Ref.

Approved by: WM MI0010F01

Scale: NTS Drawing No. Rev.

Date: June '11 MI0010 F01

Notes 1. This drawing is the property of RPS Group Ltd. It is a confidential document and must not be copied, used, or its contents divulged without prior written consent. 2. All levels are referred to Ordnance Datum, Malin Head. 3. Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence EN 0005011 ©Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland.

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme Stage 1 - Environmental Constraints Study

Area Name Recommended measures bridge Filling gap in wall at An Mhainistir housing estate Provide local embankment at old Nine Arches bride Kiniska Increase capacity of two culverts on OPW C3/5 stream Clean OPW stream C3/5 Lakeview Provide surface water outlet through fields and along N17 to downstream of Claregalway Bridge Caherlea/Lisheenavalla Install 2 No. flood eyes at Crusheeny Bridge 2 Channel widening from 0.9km upstream of Crusheeny Bridge to Claregalway Cleaning and regrading of Islandmore OPW C3/7 and F.799/1 arterial drains Raise local road in Caherlea/Lisheenavalla Carmore/Cashla Drainage of floodwater from the affected area via a new drainage pipeline/open drain to a local surface water stream at Islandmore

1.4 SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS STUDY

The scope of this Report is to identify and map environmental constraints within the study area (Figure 1.2 ) of the Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme based on the measures outlined in Table 1 . In addition the proposed Footbridge for Claregalway will also be assessed as part of this constraints report. The purpose of completing this exercise is to identify where such constraints may impact upon specific flood relief measures and in so doing will inform both the stakeholder consultation and design process for the scheme from an environmental view point.

The constraints identified have been classified under the following headings:

- Legislative, Planning and Policy - Ecology - Stakeholders - Hydrology and Water Quality - Socio-Economic - Soils, Geology and Hydrogeology - Archaeology, Architectural & Cultural - Others – Including traffic, waste Heritage management, air and noise

- Landscape and Visual

2 Crusheeny Bridge will now be demolished and replaced with a new bridge structure.

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2.1 LEGISLATIVE, PLANNING AND POLICY CONSTRAINTS

Consideration of relevant policy and legal issues at EU, national, regional and local level may influence the progression of the proposed Flood Relief Scheme. This may influence future design and construction processes. It is prudent to consider issues at as early a stage as possible so as not to delay the timely completion of the project. On this basis a list of relevant legal, planning and policy related requirements relative to the proposed Flood Relief Scheme are set out in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1 Legislation, Planning and Policy Requirements with Potential to Influence the Proposed Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme Legislation/Plan/Policy Content Relative to the Proposed Flood Relief Scheme

EU Level

(EU Flood Directive) • Aim is to reduce and manage the risks that floods pose to human health, (2007/60/EC) the environment, cultural heritage and economic activity. • Establish a framework for the assessment and management of flood risks

Water Framework Directive • Establish a framework for the protection of inland surface waters, (2000/60/EC) transitional waters, coastal waters and groundwater which

Habitats Directive • Contribute towards ensuring bio-diversity through the conservation of (92/43/EEC) natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora in the European territory of the Member States to which the Treaty applies. • Measures taken pursuant to this Directive shall be designed to maintain or restore, at favourable conservation status, natural habitats and species of wild fauna and flora of Community interest. • Measures taken pursuant to this Directive shall take account of economic, social and cultural requirements and regional and local characteristics.

Birds Directive • Protect all wild bird species naturally occurring in the Union. (2009/147/EC) • Protect habitats for endangered as well as migratory species (listed in Annex I), especially through the establishment of a coherent network of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) comprising all the most suitable territories for these species.

National Level

National Development Plan Structural Measures to be implemented in order to: (NDP) 2007-2013 (a) Provide relieve from flooding where such occurs (b) Prevent the creation of new problem areas and (c) Maintain existing defences.

This will be achieved through structural works involving the construction of Flood Relief Schemes

All these schemes will be implemented in an environmentally friendly fashion as far as possible, taking account of the principles of the Government’s National Biodiversity Plan.

The major programmes being undertaken to underpin the non-structural measures include: • Flood Risk Assessment and Management Studies; • Flood Forecasting and Warning Programme; • Emergency Response Development Programme; • Planning and Development Programme; • High-Risk Channel designation; and

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Legislation/Plan/Policy Content Relative to the Proposed Flood Relief Scheme • Research Programmes.

Report of the Flood Policy National Policy on flooding: Review Group, 2004 'to minimise the national level of flood risk to people, businesses, infrastructure and the environment, through the identification and management of existing, and particularly potential future, flood risks in an integrated, proactive and catchment-based manner'

In determining if a flood relief scheme is to be implemented the regard must be had to the following broad criteria:

(a) the scheme must be technically feasible;

(b) the scheme must generally be cost beneficial (a cost benefit analysis is undertaken to determine the economic merits of the project); and

(c) the scheme must also be environmentally compatible (an Environmental Impact Study is normally undertaken for each scheme and the scheme must satisfy the requirements of the EIS). Planning System and Flood The core objectives of the Guidelines are to: Risk Management – Guidelines for Local • Avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding; Authorities • Avoid new developments increasing flood risk elsewhere, including that which may arise from surface water run-off; • Ensure effective management of residual risks for development permitted in floodplains; • Avoid unnecessary restriction of national, regional or local economic and social growth; • Improve the understanding of flood risk among relevant stakeholders; • Ensure that the requirements of EU and national law in relation to the natural environment and nature conservation are complied with at all stages of flood risk management.

Arterial Drainage Act 1945 • This is the primary piece of legislation empowering the OPW to undertake and Amendment 1995 catchment-wide arterial drainage schemes to reduce flooding. • This amendment empowering the OPW to undertake localised flood relief schemes; to protect and reduce flood risk in individual urban areas .

EC (Assessment and • Integrates and enforces the (EU Flood Directive) (2007/60/EC) into Irish Management of Flood legislation Risks) Regulations (SI 122 2010)

EC (Natural Habitats) • Integrates and enforces the Habitats Directive ((92/43/EEC) into Irish Regulations, S.I. No. 94 of legislation. 1997 (as amended) • Enforces the requirement to undergo screening for Appropriate Assessment for plans or projects in order to satisfy Articles 6(3) and (4) of the Directive.

European Communities Requires an Environmental Impact Assessment to be completed Under (Planning and Development Schedule 5 Part II, Section 10(f)(ii) Regulations 2001 (SI 600 of 2001) “Canalisation and flood relief works, where the immediate contributing sub- catchment of the proposed works (i.e. the difference between the contributing catchments at the upper and lower extent of the works) would exceed 1,000 hectares or where more than 20 hectares of wetland would be affected or where the length of river channel on which works are proposed would be greater than 2 kilometers.” The Fisheries (Amendment) • Provides a wide range of measures to protect fish and the conservation of Act 1999 fish and other species of fauna and flora habitat; biodiversity of inland fisheries and ecosystems

The Fisheries • Protects spawning salmon and trout and creates the offence that where any (Consolidation) Act 1959 (as person wilfully obstructs the passage of salmon or trout or injures or

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Legislation/Plan/Policy Content Relative to the Proposed Flood Relief Scheme amended) disturbs any salmon or trout, or any spawn, fry or smolts or injures or disturbs any spawning bed, bank shallow where such spawn of fry or smolts may be,……… commits an offence.

• National Monuments Acts 1930-2004, Archaeological and Cultural • Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments Heritage Related Legislation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1999, and • Local Government (Planning and Development) Acts 2000-2001.

Regional Level

Regional Planning Policy SPP11: Guidelines for the West 2012-2022 Development of catchment management strategies and design of flood management works will be informed by the Habitats Directive Assessment process and/or other relevant environmental assessment.

Objective SPO31:

To ensure that where flood alleviation works take place the natural heritage and landscape character of rivers, streams and watercourses are protected and enhanced to the greatest extent possible, and that there are no negative impacts on the Conservation Objectives of Natura 2000 sites through Habitats Directive Assessment.

Galway County Objective HL40: ...... Development proposals which include proposals for Development Plan 2009- mitigation and management of flood risk will only be considered where 2015 avoidance is not possible and where development can be clearly justified with the Guidelines Justification Test”.

Western River Basin New modifications or sustainable development (Section 4.2.3) Management Plan (RBMP) Alternative objectives can be set in cases where certain developments may 2009-2015 cause a failure to achieve good status or to maintain high status. This is subject to the developments being of overriding public interest and/or there being overriding benefits to human health and safety. Alternative options for delivering these benefits must be considered and all practical steps must be taken to mitigate adverse impact on the water body. The absence from the Western RBMP of future developments does not preclude them from progressing e.g. Clare River Flood Relief Scheme, and they must be reported to the EC during subsequent plan updates.

Local Level

Claregalway Local Area Not relevant – Claregalway Local Area Plan expired in February 2011. The Plan 2005-2011 Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 is the relevant plan for this area in the interim 3.

2.2 STAKEHOLDER CONSTRAINTS

A range of key stakeholders were identified and were contacted by letter to inform them of the Flood Relief Scheme and invited to submit observations and comments regarding the environmental constraints which may be associated with this project. Table 2.2 lists these stakeholders. Stakeholders have been allowed up to the 31 st of May to respond. Table 2.2 will be updated on receipt of responses.

3 Source: Galway County Council Planning Department

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All constraints, observations and comments received from these stakeholders are being considered as part of the environmental assessment of the proposed Flood Relief Scheme. A public information day is also arranged for the 8 th of June 2011 in order that the general public can participate in identification of environmental constraints associated with the proposed scheme.

Table 2.2 Stakeholders Consulted and Responses Received to Date Stakeholder Response Received Regional Ecologist, No response to date NPWS Galway Development Applications
Confirmed that the overall project and any advanced works will Unit, require an Appropriate Assessment Department of the
Outlined the Natura 200 sites of relevance to the study area – Environment, Heritage and Lough Corrib SAC and Lough Corrib SPA. Local Government,
Confirmed that an EIS would be required to assess the ecological issues of relevance to proper planning and sustainable development, and to address all legal requirements in relation to the conservation and protection of ecological sites, habitats and species.
All aspects of the project at site preparation (including advance works), construction and operation stages should be taken into account in undertaking assessments
The following projects were identified which may give rise to in combination effects: Claregalway Local Area Plan 2005-2011; existing flood relief and flood prevention measures; new wastewater treatment plant (Cahergowan) (permitted); M17/N18 Gort to Tuam road (permitted); Claregalway riverside walkway (proposed); Claregalway bypass road (proposed). Department of Agriculture, Correspondence indicated no comments on the Environmental Fisheries and Food Constraints at this time. Geological Survey of Advised that there is currently a 4 week turnaround for answering Ireland environmental impact consultations and planning enquiries. Advised of datasets available on their website. Teagasc Confirmed that Teagasc will not be making any submission on this or any other amendment to the project and confirmed that Teagasc agrees to surrender its entitlement to be consulted on any aspect of this project. IFA No response to date Inland Fisheries Ireland Main constraints/issues summarised as:
Impact on resident/migratory fish populations
Establishment and mapping of existing baseline conditions, identification of existing pools/glide and riffle zones
Timing to avoid impacting salmonid ova, smolt or elvers or other fish species.
Disruption of angling
Access to the river from the main road and access to the proposed low bank and flood berm
Impact of sediment release and transport
Changes to low flow regimes as a result of the level at which the base of the flood berm is set in relation to the new proposed river bed level
Car parking for anglers
Plan for remediation of channel and riparian zone
Integration with Clare River walkway project

Commented that it is assumed the project will be undertaken in accordance with E.R.E.P. (Environmental River Enhancement Programme) methodology which aims to enhance all water dependent habitats and species.

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Stakeholder Response Received The creation of a fish holding pool at a suitable location downstream of Claregalway bridge adjacent to the proposed angling platform to be integrated into the river walkway project was indicated as having been discussed with the OPW. The existing pool previously selected was indicated as being too far downstream for disabled anglers to traverse (Maps provided illustrating the Clare River Catchment water bodies and the Original location proposed for disabled anglers stand). An Taisce Commented that:
Non structural options need to be investigated.
Protection, and where applicable, management of wetlands as part of the Flood Relief Scheme is important for ensuring the link between such ecosystems is recognised, valued, and accordingly protected.
Recommended consideration of sustainable drainage options that can be used for urban areas.
Considers that the opening up of lands to flooding upstream needs further consideration, such as practiced in the UK since the 2007 flooding there and the resultant ‘Pitt review’ which has led ‘Right to flood agreements’ with landowners. Birdwatch Ireland No response to date EPA Headquarters No response to date Co. Wexford. EPA Regional Inspectorate No response to date Co. Mayo. Fáilte Ireland - West No response to date Western River Basin District No response to date Project Office Galway Rural Development No response to date Company Ltd. Western Development No response to date Commission Heritage Officer, No response to date Galway County Council Environment Department, No response to date Galway County Council Water Services Unit,
Water Services Infrastructure pertaining to the Study area received Galway County Council and a request for a consultation meeting.
Trunk watermains in the area of the scheme were identified from a number of private group water supply schemes.
A proposal to construct Claregalway Sewerage Scheme with treatment plant and outfall to be located on lands to the west of Claregalway bridge was advised of.
It was advised that there are a number of private sewerage treatment plants in the study area discharging to the Clare River. Planning Department, No response to date Galway County Council, Galway County No response to date Development Board Roads & Transportation No response to date Unit Galway County Council Galway Archaeological and No response to date Historical Society Carra Mask Corrib Water No response to date Protection Group Ltd. Claregalway Community No response to date Association Claregalway GAA Club No response to date

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2.3 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS

Human beings, the economy and their associated material assets (physical resources in the environment, which may be either of human or natural origin) are an important element of the environment. The principal concern is that human beings within the Flood Relief Scheme study area experience no significant negative impacts in aspects of quality of life as a consequence of the proposed flood relief measures. This aspect of the environment can be influenced positively or negatively by many factors, some of which are dealt with in separate sections of this report. These include air quality, noise, ecology and water quality. This section specifically reviews land use, communities, material assets, utilities and flooding on these communities.

2.3.1 Land Use and Communities

The study area is largely rural, apart from the urban settlement of Claregalway. The main villages and agglomerations are Carnmore East, Caherlea, Gortaleva, Islandmore, Lisheenavalla, Crusheeny, Kiltroge, Kiniska, Claregalway, Lakeview, Cahergowan/Summerfield, Montiagh North, Montiagh South, and Curraghmore.

Claregalway hosts a growing number of local shops and a basic range of services are provided for those residing within the village and in its immediate hinterland e.g. hotels, shops, pubs, GAA club, community centre, leisure centre and offices. Being in such close proximity to other settlements means that the village remains a desirable residential location for those prepared to commute to work in the larger urban centers of Galway City and Tuam as well as the industrial area of Oranmore. Claregalway displays the characteristics of a dormitory settlement: a high residential content, no significant local employment base and a high level of commuting 4.

The townlands surrounding Claregalway and located within the study area are largely agricultural lands. Agriculture would once have been a key industry in the Claregalway region, however changes in the residential community over a number of decades have led to a shift in the main employment sectors within this region ( Table 2.3 ). However, there is still a strong agricultural community within the wider Clare River catchment, and an annual Agricultural Show is hosted in Claregalway.

Table 2.3 sets out the population structure, employment trends and employment levels for the three main electoral divisions that cover the study area and the urban area of Claregalway.

Table 2.3 Population Structure, Employment Trends and Employment Levels for the Three Main Electoral Divisions ED of ED of ED of Ceathrú an Baile Chláir Carnmore Bhrúnaigh (part)

Population* 1451 1567 673

Unemployment Levels (%) 2.3 2.3 5 Professional Professional Professional Main Employment F Workers Workers Workers Sector** Building and Manufacturing Manufacturing construction M workers workers workers *Aged 15 and over **F – Female M – Male (Source: CSO, 2006)

From this table it is clear that the working community consists for the most part of professional workers for the female population. This reflects the location of the study area close to Galway City for commuting. The male community has a more diverse work sector with a mix of manufacturing and

4 Claregalway Local Area Plan 2005-2011

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In terms of visiting community the predominant attraction is angling and tourism. The Clare River offers some of the best quality trout found anywhere in Ireland 5. Salmon fishing can also be excellent over many sections of the river, with spring salmon often been taken from the end of March. Claregalway has a wealth of tourism attractions which can be seen from its rich history and built heritage along the banks of the Clare River e.g. Claregalway Friary.

The proposed flood relief works will for the most part not pose constraints on the main land uses, population or employment in the region. Channel widening will reduce the area of workable lands for agricultural purposes. Any in stream works required including channel widening, deepening and bridge works could have an effect on the fishing potential of the rivers, fish movements and low flows with resulting impact on the angling resources of the region.

2.3.2 Material Assets and Utilities

Material assets can be classified as economic assets of natural and human origin, or cultural assets of a physical and social type. Those of a cultural and social nature are set out in more detail in Section 2.4 (Archaeology). A number of economic assets namely the agricultural lands and associated soils are considered to be a non-renewable natural resource of high economic importance for the region. There are known mineral or aggregate deposits existing within the study area. These aspects will not be impacted negatively by any flood alleviation measures proposed.

Major utilities in the region of the proposed works include the following:

Transportation network: Several crossings of the Clare River occur within the study area including the N84 at Curraghmore, the N17 at Claregalway and local roads at Montiagh townland, Crusheeny Bridge and Caherlea townland. There are no railway lines in the vicinity of the study area.

Energy Infrastructure : Three high voltage ESB lines run through the study area. There are two 110Kv lines (to the west and east of Claregalway village) and a 38Kv line. The 110kv line to the west of Claregalway crosses the Clare River approximately 0.3km west of the Friary. The 100kv line to the east of Claregalway village crosses the Clare River at Crusheeny Bridge. It also crosses the proposed flood alleviation drain in the townland of Carnmore East. The 38kv line roughly follows the route of the main N17 road from north to south and crosses the Clare River approximately 0.8km east of the castle located in Claregalway village. There is one 10Kv ESB which transverses the study area. The medium voltage 10KV ESB line follows the N17 primary road and crosses the Clare River in Claregalway village. There is also a 20Kv ESB line northeast of Claregalway village which follows the local road from Caraunkeelwy townland to Kiniska townland and ends at the tributary of the Clare River at Kiniska townland. The village of Claregalway, and Lakeview townland, are also supplied with natural gas by An Bord Gais (Figure 2.1). The distribution network follows the N18 from Carnmore Cross Roads and turns right at the N18/N17 junction in Claregalway to supply Claregalway village.

5 The Angler’s Guide to Game Fishing in the Western Fisheries Region, WRFB, 2003.

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Figure 2.1 Bord Gáis Distribution Network

Water Supply: There are no surface water bodies which are designated drinking water protected areas in the study area. Galway County Council’s trunk watermain runs through the centre of the study area, following the N17 road passing through Claregalway. There are also a number of watermains from private group water supply schemes within the study area - Carnmore No. 1 GWSS, Carnmore No. 2 GWSS, Carnmore No. 3 GWSS, Lisheenavalla GWSS, Kiniska GWSS, Cahernashilleeny GWSS, Cloon GWSS, Claregalway GWSS, Claregalway No. 2 GWSS. There are also a number of groundwater wells in the study area which are used for water supply in group water schemes. These are detailed in Table 2.12 in Section 2.8.3.

Wastewater Treatment: There are no local authority wastewater treatment plants located within the study area at present. Galway County Council proposes to construct a wastewater treatment plant as part of the Claregalway Sewerage Scheme on lands located to the west of Claregalway bridge in the townland of Cahergowan/Summerfield. Currently all wastewater is currently treated via private wastewater treatment systems. There are a number of local authority licensed discharges all concentrated around Claregalway Village.

Work at river crossings i.e. bridges will constrain the local transport network and have the potential for disruption to electricity lines. This will need to be considered further at Crusheeny Bridge, Claregalway Bridge, the local road in Caherlea townland, the local road in Montiagh and the N84 at Curraghmore.

2.3.3 Landownership and Access

Access to the Clare River channel will have to be agreed with local landowners. Likewise where widening of the channel is proposed (e.g. at Crusheeny Bridge), agreement to do so with private landowners will be required. Where deepening of the channel is proposed, additional requirements for

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2.3.4 Flooding Events

The proposed Flood Relief Scheme is being implemented in response to flooding events that have occurred in the study area in 2000, November 2009, December 2006, January 2005, December 1999 and the winter of 1990. In November 2009, a number of residential properties were flooded and businesses disrupted 6 starting from Claregalway upstream along the Clare River to Corofin and the Abbert River, and in the Carnmore/Cashla areas. Other impacts on the human environment from these flood events included:

• Stress and anxiety to residents and property owners from both past events and the threat of similar events occurring in the future, • General social disruption to the local community e.g. access to national roads, housing estates, commercial developments and agricultural lands were hampered • Closure of schools, • Closure of roads (e.g. N17, R339, local roads), disruption and delays in traffic movements.

The proposed Flood Relief Scheme and its associated measures aim to relieve and where possible eliminate these issues for the local communities- working, residential and visiting.

2.4 ARCHAEOLOGY, ARCHITECTURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE CONSTRAINTS

2.4.1 Overview of Archaeological, Architectural and Cultural Heritage Context

2.4.1.1 Introduction

The following section details the results of a Cultural Heritage Constraint Study, which has been carried out in order to assess the archaeological and architectural resource within the environs of the proposed Clare River Flood Relief Scheme. The study area comprises an area c. 1km north and south of the Clare River passing through the village of Baile Chláir (Claregalway). Whilst the constraints area covers a relatively large area, much of it remains rural in nature and dominated by agricultural activities.

A Cultural Heritage Constraint assessment has been undertaken in order to identify all recorded archaeological and cultural heritage (including built heritage) sites and to highlight areas of archaeological or architectural potential within the constraint study area. The locations of these known constraints are plotted on Figure 2.2 and will in turn inform the future development options for the flood relief works.

6 Ryan Hanley, June 2010. Study to identify practical measures to address flooding on the Clare River. Volume 1- Report & Volume 2 Appendices. Ryan Hanley, August 2010. Study to identify practical measures to address flooding at Carnmore/Cashla.

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2.4.1.2 Outline of Cultural Heritage Study

The assessment involved a study of the archaeological, architectural, historical and cultural background of the constraints area. This included information from the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) of County Galway and a review of the Galway County Development Plan.

2.4.2 Methodology Used for Assessing the Baseline Value of Sites

2.4.2.1 Study Methodology The Constraint Study Area covers a large area along the Clare River to the east and west of Baile Chláir . The Clare River rises north of Ballyhaunis in County Mayo and flows south-west turning west at Baile Chláir to enter Lough Corrib. For the purpose of this constraint report the study area is confined to 1km north and south of the relevant sections of waterway. It is located within County Galway and contains the Barony of Clare and Galway and Dunkellin along with all or part of four parishes including Claregalway, Oranmore, Lackagh and Athenry. The study area further includes all or part of 34 townlands, which are listed below.

From west to east the townlands located within the study area include: An Currach Mór (Curraghmore), Sceach Liag (Coarsefield), Gort an Chalaidh (Angliham or Gortacallow), Coilluachtair (Kilroughter), Ceathrú an Bhrúnaigh (Carrowbrowne), An Saighleán (Sylaun), An Móinteach Thuaidh (Montiagh North) , An Móinteach Theas (Montiagh South), An Chluain (Cloon) , An Pollach Riabhach (Pollaghrevagh) , Chathair Ghabann (Cahergowan or Summerfied), Gort Chluain Mór (Gortcloonmore), Baile Chláir (Claregalway), Gort an Dúigh (Gortadooey), Waterdale, An Leithceathrú Mhór (Lecarrowmore), Peak, Leacht Seoirse (Laghtgeorge), An Ruán Mor (Rooaunmore), Cinn Uisce (Kiniska), Droim na gaoithe (Lake View), An Laighdeacán (Lydacan), Cill Torróg (Kiltroge), Na Croisíní (Crusheeny), Gort an tséibhe (Gortaleva), Cahernashilleeny, Islandmore, Grange West, Lisheenavalla, An Chathair Liath (Caherlea), Lios Arúla (Lissarulla), An Carn Mór Thiar (Carnmore West), An Carn Mór Thoir (Carnmore East) and An Carn Mór (Carnmore).

Assessment of the study area was undertaken in a number of stages. The first stage comprised research of all available documentary, cartographic and recorded information to establish the number of known monuments and built heritage sites in the area.

The second stage involved the mapping of all recorded monuments and built heritage sites. These are presented in map form to accompany the cultural heritage constraints report.

2.4.2.2 Amalgamation of Information

Once all RMP (Archaeological Heritage) and Built Heritage (protected structures) sites had been identified during the initial research and consultation stages, the information was mapped onto OS maps of the area using AutoCad. In addition, further constraints, which may not be subject to statutory protection, but should none the less be considered as cultural heritage constraints, were also added. These include an Area of Archaeological Potential (AAP) illustrated as AAP 1 in Figure 2.2 , which is the riverine environment around the Clare River.

2.4.3 Baseline Environment

2.4.3.1 Recorded Monuments There are a total of 52 individual recorded archaeological sites within the constraints area. All of these sites are listed within the RMP. One of these sites is also designated Recorded Protected Structures in the Galway County Development Plan and Claregalway Local Area Plan (See Table 2.4 ). One of the sites is listed as a National Monument (Claregalway Abbey). A number of features in and surrounding the Abbey are also considered to be National Monuments due to their direct association with the Abbey. All of these sites are subject to statutory protection under the National Monuments Act and should be considered as cultural heritage constraints during the design of the proposed flood

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study alleviation works. Some of the sites are clustered together, such as ringforts and souterrains or churches and graveyards, and as such these have been grouped for the purpose of this report. Therefore there are 19 sites/groups of sites of Archaeological Heritage (AH) within the constraints area. Of these 19 designations, four sites/ records have been made redundant.

Records classed as 'Redundant record' are those that fulfil one or more of the following criteria: (1) a record identifying a location where, according to literature, cartographic sources or personal communication, a monument might have existed, but which, on inspection, was found not to be an archaeological monument (e.g. a natural feature); (2) a record classified using a term which is now obsolete (e.g. ecclesiastical remains); (3) a record created in the database for which there is no supporting evidence recorded on file or in the database; (4) an archaeological object (i.e. an artefact), e.g. a quern stone; (5) a record entered as a 'Shipwreck' ( www.archaeology.ie ).

Table 2.4 Recorded Monuments and Places (RMP) located within the constraints area AH RMP No.: Townland: Classification: Legal Status: No.: AH 1 GA069-032 An Móinteach Theas Children’s burial ground RMP AH 2 GA070-035001 Baile Chláir Religious house National Monument/RMP AH 2 GA070-035002 Baile Chláir Graveyard National Monument/RMP AH 2 GA070-035003 −7 Baile Chláir Five grave slabs National Monument/RMP AH 2 GA070-035008 −26 Baile Chláir Tomb, armorial plaque, National 17th Century grave slabs Monument/RMP AH 3 GA070-114 Baile Chláir Redundant Record RMP AH 4 GA070-109 Baile Chláir Deserted settlement RMP (medieval) AH 5 GA070-011 Chathair Ghabhann Redundant Record RMP or Summerfield AH 6 GA070-036 Baile Chláir Castle – tower house RMP/RPS AH 6 GA070-036001 Baile Chláir Bawn RMP AH 6 GA070-036002 Baile Chláir Road/ Trackway RMP AH 7 GA070-012001 Chathair Ghabhann Church RMP or Summerfield AH 7 GA070-012002 Chathair Ghabhann Graveyard RMP or Summerfield AH 8 GA070-111001 Baile Chláir Moated site RMP AH 8 GA070-111002 Baile Chláir Earthwork possible RMP AH 8 GA070-111003 Baile Chláir Enclosure RMP AH 9 GA070-073001 Cill Torróg House indetermined RMP AH 9 GA070-073002 Cill Torróg Burial possible RMP AH 10 GA070-070 Cill Torróg Children’s burial ground RMP AH 11 GA070-071 Cill Torróg Castle – tower house RMP AH 12 GA070-115 Cinn Uisce Souterrain RMP AH 13 GA070-113 Cinn Uisce Enclosure possible RMP AH 14 GA070-076 Cinn Uisce Redundant Record RMP AH 15 GA083-050001 Lios Arúla Castle (unclassified) RMP AH 15 GA083-050002 Lios Arúla Deserted settlement RMP (medieval) AH 16 GA083-046 Lisheenavalla Enclosure RMP AH 17 GA083-014 An Carn Mhór Thiar Redundant Record RMP AH 18 GA083-016 An Carn Mhór Thiar Souterrain RMP AH 19 GA070-072 Cill Torróg Enclosure RMP

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2.4.3.2 Areas of Archaeological Potential

Areas of Archaeological Potential (AAP) can be defined as parts of the landscape that possess the potential to contain archaeological remains due to the presence of topographic features such as rivers, lakes, high defendable ground and bog. Rivers and lakes are a focus for human habitation due to the obvious transport and food resources. They (along with bogs) also have the potential to preserve organic archaeological deposits or artefacts such as wood or leather, which do not usually survive within the alkaline conditions associated with terrestrial archaeology. Wooden track ways dating to the Bronze Age period and later have been excavated within bog land throughout Ireland. Rivers and lakes may have also played a role in prehistoric ritual, as significant artefacts from the prehistoric periods and into the early medieval period, are often found within river bed deposits.

The largest Area of Archaeological Potential within the constraints area is that of the riverine environment surrounding the Clare River (AAP 1). This is also a protected ecological habitat (SAC). There are also numerous smaller waterways throughout the study area, although some are man-made and post medieval in date. The natural streams should also be considered as possessing archaeological potential. Riversides have always provided a focus for human activity and settlement and act as natural boundaries. There is the potential to identify transient archaeological activity such as Bronze Age burnt mound sites. These sites are generally uncovered in or near riverine and waterlogged environments which provide the ideal circumstances for the construction and preservation of burnt mounds (fulachta fiadh ).

However, it should be noted that whilst the section of the Clare River within the constraints area should be considered to be of archaeological potential, it has been impacted upon during the last 150 years by drainage improvements. This is obvious when an examination of the first edition OS map of 1840 is undertaken. It shows that most of the river has been straightened, with some channels removed completely. Aerial photographic coverage of the river channel also shows mounds of dredged material flanking the river in many places, indicating that the river bed has been subject to works to deepen it over the years.

An analysis of the historical maps shows no mill sites along the river within the constraints area, although archaeological testing at Claregalway Castle identified the possible remains of a mill building adjacent to the northern river bank. Records indicate that this section of the river channel was not created (or possibly deepened) until the late 18th century, which would make any mill post medieval in date. The first edition OS map does show an eel weir (AAP 2, Figure 2.2 ) across the river between the townlands of Cill Torróg and Na Croisíní.

The western part of the constraints area is characterised by bog land, sections of which have been subject to turf cutting over the years. This is a level area now overgrown in places with thick grass and gorse. The bog is crossed by linear post medieval drainage ditches and is subject to ecological protection as a SAC (Special Area of Conservation). This bog land also possesses high archaeological potential and has been designated as AAP 3.

2.4.3.3 Architectural Heritage

There are three Recorded Protected Structures (RPS) located within the constraints area that have been included within the Galway County Development Plan and the Claregalway Local Area Plan. Of these one is listed as a house (BH 1), one as a bridge (BH 2) and one as a castle (BH 3/AH 6).

There are a total of two structures within the constraints area that are listed within the NIAH survey for Galway. These consist of a bridge (BH 2) and a garda barracks (BH 4). The site of one additional bridge, was identified across the Clare River between the townlands of Cill Torróg and Na Croisíní. However, further investigation revealed the bridge to be a recent replacement.

Very little in terms of vernacular heritage in the constraints area has survived to the present day. The first edition OS map shows a number of large clustered settlements, with an irregular plan within the constraints area in the townlands of An Móinteach Theas, Gort Chluain Mór, Cinn Uisce, Gort an

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study tséibhe, An Chathair Liath, and Lisheenavalla. The townlands of Chathair Ghabann and Lios Arúla are both shown to contain two nucleated settlements, whilst only a small amount of houses are shown within the village of Baile Chláir . In many cases the settlements continue to be occupied today, albeit on a smaller scale. However, the old vernacular structures have for the most part been replaced by modern residential dwellings and as such very little survives that possesses architectural or heritage merit. One vernacular cottage does survive within the village of Baile Chláir (BH 1), which is listed as a protected structure. This is a rare survival within the constraints area.

Unusually there are no large houses within the constraints area, which would have belonged to the Anglo-Irish land owning classes. This is likely due to the marginal nature of the landscape, which is dominated by bog land and is poorly drained. One of the closest houses is that of Castle Lambert, which the first edition shows as being surrounded by a large demesne landscape, which was square in plan. This is located c. 2.5km to the southeast of the constraints area. Today the house remains, but the demesne landscape has completely disappeared.

2.4.3.4 Record of Protected Structures

A review of the Galway County Development Plan (2009 −2015) and Claregalway Local Area Plan (2005-2011) has revealed that there are only three protected structures located within the constraints area. All protected structures are subject to statutory protection and should be considered as cultural heritage constraints during the design of the flood alleviation works. One of the structures, the castle at Baile Chláir , is designated as an RMP in addition to RPS (BH 3/AH 6). The bridge at Baile Chláir is also recorded in the NIAH (BH 2, NIAH Ref.: 30407011). A thatched vernacular building (BH 1) in Baile Chláir is not listed within the NIAH survey.

2.4.3.5 National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH)

A review of the NIAH survey for North County Galway has revealed that there are only two structures recorded within the constraints area.

A nine-arch road bridge (BH 2, Table 2.5 ), built c. 1710, is recorded in the NIAH in Baile Chláir (NIAH Ref.: 30407011). The bridge comprises of a central arch flanked by arches of decreasing sizes; built with coursed hammer-dressed limestone walls. Currently set beside the Galway-Tuam road the bridge is accessed by a flight of seven steps to south. The bridge is also recorded as a protected structure in the Galway County Development Plan (RPS Ref.: 108). This bridge once carried the main road over another channel of the Clare River. Two channels through the village are clearly shown on the first edition OS map of 1840, although the bridge to the north was removed and replaced in 1957.

The Garda station (BH 4, Table 2.5 ) in Leacht Seoirse built in c. 1870 as an RIC barracks is recorded in the NIAH (NIAH Ref.: 30407010). The structure is described as an important social focus to the local community which is exemplified by its positioning on the main Galway to Roscommon road and at the junction of three roads. Much of the original fabric has been retained, including timber sash windows, making the building an attractive and pleasing part of the architectural heritage of the area.

Table 2.5 Built Heritage sites (BH) located within the constraints area BH No.: RPS/NIAH No.: Townland: Classification: Legal Status: BH 1 109 Chathair Ghabann Vernacular cottage RPS BH 2 108 Baile Chláir Bridge RPS 30407011 BH 3 110 Baile Chláir Castle RPS/ RMP BH 4 30407010 Leacht Seoirse Garda Barracks None

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2.4.3.6 Demesne Landscapes

There are no demesne landscapes and associated country houses located in the constraints study area of the proposed flood alleviation works.

2.4.4 Potential Constraints

2.4.4.1 General The constraints area comprises c. 1km north and south of the Clare River to the west and east of Baile Chláir village. A moderate number of sites of archaeological heritage (52) are located within the constraints area although only five of these are located within c . 100m of the river (AH 4, 6, 7, 8, 11).

A total of four sites of built heritage have been identified within the constraints area although only one of these are located within 100m of the Clare River (BH 3, 5). This consists of a former road bridge that once crossed a river channel in Baile Chláir village (BH 2), which is a protected structure.

A study of the historic mapping and a review of the terrain has resulted in the identification of three areas of archaeological potential (AAP 1-3). AAP 1 comprises the riverine environment of the Clare River. Riversides have always provided a focus for human activity and settlement and act as natural boundaries. Historical mapping shows that the river was more irregular prior to straightening in the mid-late 19th century. There is the potential to identify transient archaeological activity such as Bronze Age burnt mound sites. These sites are generally uncovered in or near riverine and waterlogged environments which provide the ideal circumstances for the construction and preservation of burnt mounds (fulachta fiadh ). AAP 2 consists of the site of an eel weir, which is marked on the Clare River on the first edition OS map between the townlands of Na Croisíní and Cill Torróg.

AAP 3 is formed by the western part of the constraints area, which is characterised by bog land, sections of which have been subject to turf cutting over the years. The bog is crossed by linear post medieval drainage ditches and part of it is subject to ecological protection as a SAC (Special Area of Conservation). The SAC also includes the Clare River. This bog land also possesses high archaeological potential as the layers of peat often preserve wooden tracks and other organic remains dating from the prehistoric period through to more recent times.

2.5 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL CONSTRAINTS

The Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 incorporates the findings of the Landscape Character Assessment Report carried out in 2003 which assessed each area of the County under the following classifications:

1. Character 2. Values 3. Sensitivity

2.5.1 Landscape Character

Landscape Character is a combination of landform, land cover and visual units, which are attractive in the landscape. The Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 indicates the study area encompasses one Landscape Character Area:

• Area No. 5 “Northeast Galway (Tuam environs)”

An extract of the Landscape Character map from the Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 is shown in Figure 2.3.

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Figure 2.3 Landscape Sensitivity and Character Areas of County Galway (Source: Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015)

2.5.2 Landscape Sensitivity

Landscape Sensitivity is a measure of the ability of the landscape to accommodate change or intervention without suffering unacceptable effects to its character and values. Sensitivity ratings are derived from a combination of landscape values and landscape character. Five landscape sensitivity classes have been established:

• Class 1 – Low sensitivity • Class 2 – Moderate sensitivity • Class 3 – High sensitivity • Class 4 – Special • Class 5 – Unique

The study area is designated as Class 1 – Low sensitivity. An extract of the Landscape Sensitivity map from the Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 is shown in Figure 2.3.

The Landscape Character Assessment 2003 also identified areas of protected “Focal Points/Views” which identify areas of scenic amenity value and interest. There are two protected “Focal Points/Views” located within the study area;

• Church and cemetery ruins at Claregalway • Reservoir located north of the R339 northeast of Galway (Carn Mór)

An extract of the Focal Points/Views map from the Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 is shown in Figure 2.4.

Architectural and local landscape sensitivities within the study area at a local level are further discussed in Section 2.4 (Archaeology).

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 2.5.3 Landscape Values Landscape Values are the local communities’ perceptions of the landscape they inhabit. These perceptions arise from features such as archaeology, visual beauty, mythology, religious sites, ecology, social history, traditional settlement patterns and community values. The Landscape Value Rating of the Clare River and its environs is designated as Low ( Figure 2.5).

Figure 2.4 Focal Points/Views in Galway County (Source: Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015)

Figure 2.5 Landscape Value Rating of Galway County (Source: Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015)

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The aim of this assessment of the terrestrial and aquatic ecological environment is to identify and describe sites of known or potential ecological interest and to assess the potential ecological constraints on the proposed scheme.

2.6.1 Methodology

The methodology comprises the following elements: Desk Study and Consultation. These elements are used to identify, describe and map areas of known or potential ecological value.

The material sources consulted as part of the Desk Study are as follows:

• A review of the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) natural heritage database for designated areas of ecological interest and sites of nature conservation importance within and adjacent to the study area, • A review of the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) rare and threatened species database for records of species of conservation interest within the study area. • Literature review to identify and collate relevant published information on both ecological aspects of the study area and relevant ecological studies conducted in other areas, including the following; o New Atlas of the British and Irish Flora CD-ROM, o Bat Conservation Ireland’s website http://www.batconservationireland.org, o Irish Butterflies website http://www.irishbutterflies.com, o Water Framework Directive website www.wfdireland.ie, and o ‘The Angler’s Guide to Game Fishing in the Western Region’ Western Regional Fisheries Board, 2003. • Review of Ordnance Survey maps and of aerial images.

A review of aerial photographs of the study area was carried out. The objective of this review was to identify areas of low ecological value, such as; urban areas, areas under arable cultivation or under intensive pasture. Conversely, the review of aerial photographs was also used to identify areas of potentially high ecological value such as woodlands and wetlands.

2.6.2 Designated Sites of Conservation Importance

The site synopses produced by NPWS are a source of information used when investigating important habitats or species likely to be found within areas that have been officially designated because of their conservation importance.

The three main types of designation include; Special Area of Conservation (cSAC), Special Protection Area (SPA) and Natural Heritage Area (NHA). cSACs and SPAs are also known as Natura 2000 sites and are designated under European Legislation. cSACs are designated under the EU Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC which was transposed into Irish law in the European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997 as amended in 1998 and 2005. SPAs are designated under the EU Birds Directive 79/409/EEC. NHAs are designated under the Irish Legislation, specifically the Wildlife Act 1976 (amended 2000).

Figure 2.6 shows the designated sites of conservation importance within the constraints study area. Descriptions of the key features of conservation importance of these sites are outlined in Table 2.5.

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