Limerick Council to commence the appointment of a contractor for the construction of the King’s Island Flood Relief Scheme

Limerick Council to commence the appointment of a contractor for the construction of the King’s Island Flood Relief Scheme. Photo: Donal Stundon/LimericksLife

Approval has been given to Limerick City & County Council to commence with the appointment of a contractor for the construction of the King’s Island Flood Relief Scheme

Following the competitive procurement process the appointment of a contractor for the Kings Island Flood Relief Scheme will allow works to start this Autumn and will take two years to complete. The scheme will bring protection from significant flooding to 506 homes and 22 businesses by the end of 2026.

The scheme design for the King’s Island project consists of the construction of new earthen flood embankments, new walls, repairs and upgrades to existing quay walls, pavement improvements and public realm works, drainage and utility works, conservation mitigation, archaeological mitigation and ecological mitigation.

In welcoming the imminent commencement of construction in the coming weeks, Minister Kieran O’Donnell said he looks forward to construction of what will be “one of the largest flood relief schemes in the country” which will give much-needed protection to 506 homes and 22 businesses.

He said, “This is a significant investment by government in Limerick city and in addition to protecting homes, properties and the community of King’s Island, the scheme will include significant public realm upgrades and enhancement of the built heritage of this historic part of our great city.”

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran says scheme will “bring peace of mind to hundreds of residents and business owners”.

He said the investment is “an important piece of the jigsaw” in revitalising the historic part of Limerick City.

Mayor Moran said, “Significant progress has already been made by the Council and elected representatives in collaboration with the community. €4.8 million is being invested in the development of a new King’s Island Community Centre in St. Marys Park.

“The Council has also secured THRIVE (Town Centre First Heritage Revival) funding to promote the development of key strategic sites on Nicholas Street. A masterplan for King John’s Castle is set to transform the 13th century castle in to a world-class visitor attraction. These projects will improve the area’s ability to serve the needs of the community while generating employment and driving footfall.”

The design for the King’s Island FRS consists of the construction of new earthen flood embankments, new walls, repairs and upgrades to existing quay walls, pavement improvements and public realm works, drainage and utility works, conservation mitigation, archaeological mitigation and ecological mitigation.

The appointment of a contractor follows a competitive procurement process. Works are due to begin this autumn with completion expected by the end of 2026.