Regeneration plans for Bantry harbour in Co. Cork, Ireland

The Bantry Inner Harbour Development will cost in the region of €8.5m and marks the start of a wider scheme put into place by Bantry Bay Harbour Commissioners in 2012.

Funding has been supplied by the Port of Cork Company, the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport and from previous funds carried over from Bantry Harbour Commissioners.

John Mullins, Bantry Bay Port Company and Port of Cork chairman, said: “BAM Civil is the largest civil engineering and public works contractor in Ireland and Bantry Bay Port Company is very excited to be working with them on the new inner harbour development.”

As well as providing a more sheltered harbour environment and marina with increased water depth, the development will also see the pier facilities improved and a new quayside area which will support and promote fishing and tourism activities in the Bantry area.

Once complete the Bantry Inner Harbour Development will ensure vessels no longer lie aground when beside the pier. The quayside reclamation area will provide an increased area for marine related activities, making the pier safer environment for all users.

The new twenty berth marina will provide improved berthage for local and visiting yachts to moor and access the town centre. Dredging will be carried out on the existing pier and new marina facilities, allowing access at all stages of the tide.

Also part of the project will be a new amenity area, developed in consultation with Cork County Council and the local community.

Construction is expected to begin in late February/early March 2016 with completion by Q3 2017.

By Rebecca Strong