Kildare County Council
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACT
2000-2014
PART XI
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001-2013
PART VIII
PROPOSAL
SECTION OF CYCLEWAY & FOOTWAY ADJACENT TO ROYAL CANAL BETWEEN
KILMORE & MOYVALLEY, CO. KILDARE
Roughan & O’Donovan - AECOM
Consulting Engineers
Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
Shared Cycleway and Footway – Kilmore to Moyvalley
Planning Proposal
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 1
1.1
Background to Project .............................................................................................................. 1
2.0 PLANNING CONTEXT ......................................................................................... 1
2.1
Kildare County Council Development Plan 2011 – 2017 ......................................................... 1
2.2
National Cycling Policy Framework 2009 - 2020 ...................................................................... 3
3.0 PREVIOUS STUDIES ........................................................................................... 4
3.1
National Cycle Network – Scoping Study ................................................................................. 4
4.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ...................................................................... 5
4.1
Site Description......................................................................................................................... 5
4.2
Scheme Description and Layout ............................................................................................... 5
4.3
Road Crossing .......................................................................................................................... 5
4.4
Access Controls ........................................................................................................................ 5
4.5
Ducting ...................................................................................................................................... 5
4.6
Boundary Treatment ................................................................................................................. 6
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ..................................................................... 6
5.1
Hydrology .................................................................................................................................. 6
5.2
Ecology ..................................................................................................................................... 6
5.3
Architectural Heritage ............................................................................................................. 10
6.0 Local Domestic and Agricultural Properties ................................................... 10
6.1
Domestic Properties ............................................................................................................... 10
6.2
Agricultural Properties ............................................................................................................ 10
7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION ....................................................................... 10
7.1
Flora and Fauna Mitigation ..................................................................................................... 10
7.1.1 Protection of the Royal Canal linear habitat ........................................................................... 10
7.1.2 Protection of wildlife ................................................................................................................ 10
7.1.3 Best Practice Water Quality / Pollution Prevention Measures ............................................... 11
7.1.4 Eradication of Invasive species .............................................................................................. 12
7.2
Architectural Heritage and landscape ..................................................................................... 12
8.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS ............................................................... 12
9.0 PROJECT DELIVERY ........................................................................................ 12
Appendix A - Drawings
Appendix B – Ecology Assessment
Appendix C – Architectual Heritage Impact Assessmnet
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1.0
Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
INTRODUCTION
Kildare County Council proposes to construct a section of high quality cycleway and
footway on the southern bank of the Royal Canal between Kilmore and Moyvalley
which is part of a larger proposal for a cycleway from Maynooth to Galway. A
previous Part VIII application which was approved by Meath and Kildare County
Councils (KCC Planning Ref 09/0713) in July 2013, included a high quality cycleway
and footway on the northern bank of the Royal Canal between Kilmore and
Moyvalley, the proposal to change to the south bank of the canal is put forward for
the following reasons:
1. The south bank of the Royal Canal was the preferred choice but due to a
landowner dispute at the time of the original Part VIII application the north
bank was the only option. An agreed boundary line between landowners on
the south bank has been established which includes room for a high quality
cycleway and footway and a decision to switch the proposed route between
Kilmore and Moyvalley to the south bank of the Royal Canal was made.
2. The use of the south bank also allows for a future option for walkers and
cyclists to pass under Kilmore Bridge (bank widening etc is required) rather
than crossing the local road (L1003). A crossing point over the local road will
also be provided for large groups or wide cycles such as tricycles etc.
3. The change to the south bank will allow users to pass under the R148 without
the provision of an underpass which is required for the proposal on the north
bank. The construction of this underpass would have required significant
disturbance to traffic on the R148 which can be avoided if the cycleway and
footway is moved the south bank of the Royal Canal. It is proposed as part of
the southern canal bank works that a ramp will be provided to allow cyclists
and pedestrians to continue on their journey via Moyvalley Bridge. Details of
the proposed ramp are outlined in this report and attached drawings.
1.1
Background to Project
The Irish Government policy entitled ‘Smarter Travel: A Sustainable Transport
Future’, which runs from 2009 to 2020, identifies certain key goals and objectives to
be met in order to introduce a national sustainable transport network. A National
Cycle Policy (NCP) was implemented to run alongside the main ‘Smarter Travel: A
Sustainable Transport Future’ document. The NCP mission states that it wants to
create a strong cycling culture in Ireland while also encouraging recreational cycling.
The NCP also outlines the importance of the National Cycle Network in attracting
overseas tourists if the project is implemented.
2.0
PLANNING CONTEXT
2.1
Kildare County Council Development Plan 2011 – 2017
The primary Aim of the Kildare County Development Plan is the promotion of ease of
movement within the county which supports improvements to cycleway and
pedestrian facilities.
The Kildare County Council Development Plan 2011 – 2017 specifically identifies the
following walking and cycling objectives:
ST 2: To encourage and facilitate safe walking and cycling routes as a valuable form
of transport, as a healthy recreational activity and an alternative to the car.
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Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
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ST 5: To provide for safer routes to schools within the county and to encourage
walking and cycling as suitable modes of transport as part of the Green School
Initiative Programme and other local traffic management improvements.
ST 8: To support and encourage the continued development of walking routes
throughout the county and to co-operate with relevant organisations and bodies,
including walking groups and local communities in the achievement of this objective.
ST 13: To promote and secure the development of a network of safe cycle routes
and footpaths reserved exclusively for pedestrians and cyclist on new and existing
roads.
ST 17: To facilitate the construction of cycleways throughout the county and to
integrate these cycleways with the DTO cycling policy for the GDA (September 2006)
as may be amended.
The importance of the Royal Canal corridor is also identified in the Development Plan
as distinctive feature in the landscape. Objectives for the protection of the Royal
Canal specifically relevant to the proposed greenway include the following:
WC 3: To control development that will adversely affect the visual integrity of
distinctive linear sections of water corridors and river valleys and open floodplains.
WC 4: To co-operate with the DoEHLG in the protection and conservation of both
Canals and the River Barrow, designated as a pNHA and cSAC respectively and in
the sections of the River Liffey designated as a pNHA.
WC 5: To promote the amenity, ecological and educational value of the canals and
rivers within the county while at the same time ensuring the conservation of their
fauna and flora, and protection of the quantity and quality of the water supply.
WV 2: To preserve and enhance the scenic amenity of the river valleys and canal
corridors and the quality of the vistas available from designated views.
AAO 12: To co-operate with Waterways Ireland in the management, maintenance
and enhancement of the Royal Canal and Grand Canal and associated
structures/features.
Chapter 12 of the Development Plan outlines the Architectural and Archaeological
Heritage details. This chapter outlines that the structures located along the Royal
Canal require protection and are individually identified within the Development Plan.
The three structures which are located within or near the proposed works area are:
Protected Structures

J. Furey’s;

Moyvalley Canal Bridge, Royal Canal Mainline;

Kilmore Bridge, Royal Canal Main Line;
The Development Plan also outlines the following in terms of what is required where
works are proposed which will affect a protected structure, it states:
‘The placing of a structure on the RPS seeks to ensure that the character of the
structure is maintained and any changes or alterations to it are carried out in such a
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Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
way as to retain and enhance this character. Works to a protected structure, that
would materially affect the character of the structure, require planning permission.’
‘It is important to note that not all works to a Protected Structure will constitute
material alterations. Under Section 57 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000
owners and occupiers may request a declaration from the Planning Authority as to
the type of works, which it considers, would or would not materially affect the
character of the structure.’
The Kildare County Development Plan outlines the following polices in terms of
protected structures:
PS 7: To promote best practice and the use of skilled specialist practitioners in the
conservation of, and any works to, protected structures. Method statements should
make reference to the DoEHLG’s Advice Series on how best to repair and maintain
historic buildings. As outlined in the DoEHLG’s Architectural Heritage Protection
Guidelines, a method statement is a useful tool to explain the rationale for the
phasing of works. The statement could summarise the principal impacts on the
character and special interest of the structure or site and describe how it is proposed
to minimise these impacts. It may also describe how the works have been designed
or specified to have regard to the character of the architectural heritage.
PS 9: To favourably consider the change of use of any structure included on the
Record of Protected Structures provided such a change of use does not adversely
impact on its intrinsic character.
Chapter 14 of the Development Plan discusses the importance of landscape amenity
and green infrastructure, i.e. the network of linked high quality green spaces and
other environmental features within an urban setting. The plans states that in the
development of green infrastructure, opportunities should be take to develop and
enhance networks for cycling, walking and other non-motorised transport.
The following objectives are identified under Chapter 14:
CR 7: To facilitate, where appropriate, the provision of cycle-ways or walkways along
the extent of the canals and watercourses in the county in co-operation with
landowners, Waterways Ireland, Government Departments and other Local
Authorities.
CR 9: To promote the expansion of cycle facilities throughout the county and to liaise
with Fáilte Ireland, the Sports Council, the National Transportation Authority and
other bodies in the development of cycling touring routes throughout the county and
adjoining counties, in particular in areas of high amenity.
RAO 1: To facilitate the provision of a variety of amenities within the county, including
natural amenities, walking routes, cycling routes, and sports facilities.
2.2
National Cycling Policy Framework 2009 - 2020
In recognising cycling as one of the most important forms of sustainable transport the
Department of Transport published a National Cycling Policy Framework in April
2009. The policy framework emanates from the Governments new transport policy
for Ireland – 2009-2020 Smarter Travel – A Sustainable Transport Future.
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The framework sets out many policies and objectives in relation to cycling, with the
ultimate aim of increasing cycling’s share of the total travel market from 2% to 10%
by 2020. The key objectives of the policy framework are as follows:

Move 160,000 people a day to work by bike; an increase of 125,000 people;

Invest in better, safer cycle routes around the country for commuters, leisure
cyclists and visitors. (Improve existing cycle routes and introduce new routes to
best international standards);

Increase cycling’s share of the total travel market, from 2% to 10%;

Introduce a new approach to the design of urban roads to better recognise the
needs of cyclists and pedestrians; and

Retrofit major road junctions and roadways in key cities and towns to make
them cycle-friendly.
A number of aims and objectives of the Framework Policy are of particular relevance
to the Maynooth to Galway cycleway and state:
“We will support the provision of dedicated signed rural cycling networks building on
Fáilte Ireland’s Strategy to Develop Irish Cycling Tourism. This will cater for
recreational cyclists as well as visitors.’’
“While the main target market of the cycle tourism strategy is visitors – both overseas
and domestic – the secondary target market is recreational cyclists. From the
perspective of the National Cycle Policy Framework, encouraging recreational cycling
is a key element of creating a cycling culture in Ireland and recreational routes in and
around areas, which, in turn link to rural areas are very important.”
“To use existing traffic free routes such as canal and river tow paths’’
3.0
PREVIOUS STUDIES
3.1
National Cycle Network – Scoping Study
The Department of Transport and the National Roads Authority carried out a scoping
study to develop a National Cycle Network to include rural recreational routes around
urban areas and connecting with major urban areas. As part of the study relevant
stakeholders were brought together to ensure that the project supported the aims of
Smarter Travel, including encouraging cycling as a leisure activity, boosting tourism
and supporting economic growth.
Following a number of workshops with relevant stakeholders a number of possible
route corridors were reviewed in relation to the relevant criteria and a recommended
National Cycle Network was established.
The Scoping Study outlines the use of existing infrastructure in its Terms or
Reference:
‘The network should use existing cycle routes if appropriate. Special attention
should be given to the opportunities of using both the disused rail network
and canal / river tow-path networks as cycling / walking routes.’
As such the Royal Canal was an obvious choice to include in the National Cycle
Network due to its links to Dublin and Mullingar.
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Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
4.0
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
4.1
Site Description
As outlined in the Introduction the Proposal is to locate the cycleway and footway on
the southern bank of the Royal Canal. The 1.8km long southern bank of the Royal
Canal between Kilmore and Moyvalley is currently heavily vegetated and is
impassable on foot. Site clearance of this scrub will be required to facilitate the
proposed 3m wide cycleway and footway but it is anticipated that unnecessary felling
any large trees adjacent to the banks will be avoided as the proposed route can be
detoured to avoid such obstacles.
The route between the Kilmore and Moyvalley Bridges which is the subject of this
Part VIII application will link to the Maynooth to Westmeath Border Shared Cycleway
and Footway, which is located along the Royal Canal tow path for its entire length.
This towpath was formerly used by horses to pull barges along the canal but is now
more typically used by walkers, for fishing and as an access road in some places.
The towpath on the southern bank of the Royal Canal between Kilmore and
Moyvalley is approximately 3-5m wide and is currently heavily overgrown with
vegetation.
The overall scheme between Maynooth and the Westmeath border passes through
the Counties of Meath and Kildare at different locations along the route,
approximately 17km in Kildare and 21km in Meath.
4.2
Scheme Description and Layout
The section of the route which is the subject of this Part VIII submission can be
described as follows:
Kilmore to Moyvalley
The proposed cycleway and footway is to be 3m wide with quarry dust surfacing and
also includes a proposed access ramp from the southern towpath of the Royal Canal
to Moyvalley Bridge, as per drawings in Appendix A.
4.3
Road Crossing
A road crossing is proposed at Kilmore Bridge (L1003). The proposed road crossing
will include minor works such as additional road markings and signage. These details
are shown on the project drawings in Appendix A.
4.4
Access Controls
A number of access controls or gates are to be provided over the length of the route
between Maynooth and the Westmeath border and two access controls are to be
provided on this 1.8km section between Kilmore and Moyvalley. These access
controls are specifically designed for cyclist/pedestrian use while still providing
sufficient security to the facility. A detail of the proposed access control is provided in
the Part 8 Drawings provided with this submission.
4.5
Ducting
Twin ducts are to be provided under proposed Cycleway and Footway for Waterways
Ireland use. The exact location of the ducts is to be confirmed but it is envisaged that
they will be located adjacent to the hedge/boundary of the canal.
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Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
Boundary Treatment
The existing boundary treatment between the southern canal bank and the adjacent
railway is currently made of hedgerow and vegetation. As part of the proposed works
a Paladin fencing or similar approved is to be provided where the proposed footway
and cycleway is located directly parallel to the railway. The existing boundary
treatment is to be retained where the cycleway diverts north from the railway and no
fence is proposed. The extent of this fencing is shown on the Part VIII drawings
outlined in Appendix A.
5.0
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
An EIA Screening and separate Part VIII Scoping exercise was carried out as part of
the Part VIII submission made in June 2013 (KCC Planning Ref 09/0713). The
scoping allowed for a preliminary assessment of the environmental issues and
identified those that require further consideration. The EIA Screening Report
identified that, due to the design of the project, there is no potential for significant
impact on the following environmental categories:

Air quality and Climate;

Noise and Vibration;

Soils and Geology;

Hydrogeology;

Archaeology;

Material Assets;

Landscape and Visual Amenity;

Socio economics;

Resources and Waste Management.
5.1
Hydrology
The proposed cycleway is located along the Royal Canal. As a result, a number of
mitigation measures have been identified within this report to ensure that water
quality is maintained within the canal and adjoining rivers and streams (See Section
6 of this report for further information).
5.2
Ecology
5.2.1 Ecology of the Royal Canal (Carried out for original Part VIII – Summer 2013)
As part of the Part VIII application submitted in the summer of 2013 for the cycleway
and footway between Maynooth and the Westmeath border a number of ecology
studies were carried out along the corridor of the Royal Canal which included the
section between Kimore and Moyvalley. The full extract from the Part VIII report
(KCC Planning Ref 09/0713) concerning the findings of these reports is reproduced
below in italics.
A Habitats Screening Report was produced to fulfil the requirements of EU Habitats
Directive (92/34/EEC). The screening document provides the information required in
order to establish whether or not the proposed development is likely to have a
significant impact on the Natura 2000 sites in the context of their conservation
objectives and specifically on the habitats and species for which the Natura 2000
sites have been designated.
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A species and habitat survey for the Royal Canal between Saunder Bridge and
Mullingar and the Boyne Aqueduct in Co. Meath was carried out in 2011 by McCarthy
Keville and O’Sullivan (MKOS), a second survey was carried out by MKOS in the
spring of 2013. Both surveys were initially assessed by a desk study of information
and literature pertinent to the sites and surrounding area, information pertaining to
legislation / designations and other notable ecological records. This was followed up
by a field survey of the site including survey for flora, fauna, aquatic habitats and
general observation works.
The following habitats are identified along the Royal Canal in the vicinity of the site:

Canals;

Depositing Lowland River;

Eroding River;

Drainage Ditch;

Pond;

Improved Agricultural Grassland;

Amenity Grassland;

Dry Neutral & Calcareous Grassland;

Dry Meadows and Grassy Verges;

Wet Grassland;

Reed & Large Sedge Swamp;

Wet Willow Alder Ash Woodland;

Mixed Broadleaved Woodland;

Conifer Plantation;

Immature Woodland;

Scrub;

Hedgerow;

Treeline;

Buildings & Artificial Surfaces;

Spoil & Bare Ground;

Recolonising Bare Ground.
Records of birds that were seen or heard were made including Kingfisher and Golden
Plover, coot cormorant, mutes swan snipe, starling, sparrow. Evidence of mammals
recorded along the route were otter, badger, fox, rabbit and Brown rat.
Most habitats and species found along the sites were considered to be common and
of local conservation interest only. However areas within the study area considered
to be of particular ecological significance were identified and included the following:
Alkaline Fen
Located close to the Longwood Harbour; this rich fen has potential to provide a rich
diversity of species. This habitat is located outside the towpath and the area of the
proposed cycleway. Given the extent of the works required it is accepted that there
will be no impact on Alkaline Fen as a result of the proposed works.
Woodlands
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Both Mixed Broadleaved Woodland and Wet willow alder ash woodland is evident
along the canal between Moyvalley Bridge and Kilmore bridge and are considered to
add to the habitat species and structural diversity of the area as well as providing
cover for fauna. Mixed broad leaved woodlands adjoin the towpath and will not be
impacted by the proposed project. Wet woodlands are located to the north of this and
also will not be impacted by the proposed cycle route. Mitigation measures are
included to ensure minimal loss of woodland cover as a result of the proposal.
Wet Grassland
North of the canal near Kilmore Bridge wet grassland is present with a high diversity
of species and adjoins the towpath. Works in this area will ensure that the footprint is
minimised during construction in order to protect the habitat present.
Dry Calcareous Neutral Grassland
There are several pockets of Dry calcareous neutral grassland along the Royal
Canal, in particular between Enfield Bridge and Cloncurry Bridge. The area is
considered species rich, however due to seasonal constraints for survey a full list of
species was not provided. The proposed cycleway adjoins and is within the area
identified as dry calcareous grassland and will result in a reduction in the area of
grassland present. A further survey is required during the optimal season to
determine the presence of protected species such as orchids. If protected species
are impacted as a result of the proposal a translocation programme may need to be
put in place and suitable sites identified along the Royal canal that can be used as
enhancement sites. See Section 6 for a full list of mitigation measures.
Reed and Large Sedge Swamp
Reed Swamp is found in a number of locations in particular east of Cloncurry Bridge
however this habitat is located to the south of the Royal Canal and the cycle route is
proposed to the north of the canal and therefore not impacted.
Depositing Lowland River
The Rye Water River approaches the canal between the Boyne Aqueduct and
Maynooth and is also within the study area in the vicinity of Ferns Lock. The works
proposed will ensure that there is no runoff of suspended solids or contamination into
the Rye Water River. A suite of mitigation measures are provided in Section 6 of this
report to ensure water quality is not compromised as a result of the design and
during construction phase.
Fauna
Kingfisher was recorded at one location only along the banks of the Royal canal but
are likely to use the area is some places for foraging. No nesting kingfisher was
identified along the proposed route. The number of trees and suitable perch
vegetation to be removed along the route will be minimised as identified in Section
6.0 below.
Otter signs were identified along the route in a number of locations (sprants, prey
remains and slides); however the canal is not suited to any permanent couches or
lies. Given the scale of the works required for the cycleway it is considered that there
is no significant impact on otters as a result of the proposed cycleway.
Badger latrines and signs were noted along the canal, however much of the activity
was located away from the canal and will not be impacted.
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One potential bat roost was identified in a tree with a large hollow. This tree will be
retained as part of the proposed project.
Invasive Species
There is one stand of Japanese knotweed identified to the east of Moyvalley Bridge.
Appropriate mitigation measures are identified for the eradication of Japanese
knotweed in Section 6 of this report.
Bats
In March 2015 an inspection of the existing bridge parapet was carried out to
investigate for any signs which may indicate the presence of bats. Firstly standing on
the deck of the bridge the upper roadside wall was inspected. Two small holes were
found on the roadside wall and one on the top of the parapet wall, these were
investigated further but no evidence of bat usage was found. Following this the
parapet wall was inspected at ground level; from the area of scrub adjoin the canal.
No suitable gaps or holes in the masonry wall were visible from the southern side of
the wall looking up at the parapet. Ivy was observed on the lower sections of the
parapet wall, these areas were inspected but no evidence of bats were found. The
remainder of the parapet wall was well sealed with no cracks. Following this
inspection it can be determined that there will be no direct impact on bats as a result
of the construction of the ramp.
However, following closer inspection of the remainder of the bridge structure it was
found that the viewing/hailing platform feature which juts out from the main bridge
structure to the east of the proposed ramp location may have potential bat roosts.
Several holes were noted on the parapet wall in this area. Provided that the
construction of the ramp does not have an impact on these walls then no impact on
possible bat species is expected.
5.2.2 Ecological Assessment (EA)
An Ecological Assessment (EA) of the southern bank of the Royal Canal was carried
out subsequent to the EIA Screening and AA Screening reports. The Ecological
Assessment involved a field walkover survey including a mammal and potential bat
roost survey of the site, which was conducted on the 15th of October 2014. In
addition to mammals and bats, other features of ecological significance were also
noted. Some of the conclusions of the study included:

No otter signs were observed along the southern bank; however, badger and fox
trails, droppings and feeding sign were observed.

The southern canal bank (i.e.5m zone) does not appear to be extensively utilized
by mammals such as Badger of Red Fox for foraging or commuting.

In relation to Bats, the majority of trees present adjacent to the existing towpath
and southern canal bank are of a small size and do not offer particularly good bat
roosting habitat.

The mature trees identified as probable bat roosts should be avoided and linear
features should be retained in the detailed design of the project.
The full EA report’s included in Appendix B.
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5.3
Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
Architectural Heritage
The proposed shared cycleway and footway between Kilmore and Moyvalley Bridges
includes the provision of a 25m steel fabricated ramp connecting to Moyvalley
Bridge. Moyvalley Bridge is considered to be of architectural significance and has
been included in Kildare County Councils Record of Protected Structures (Reg. Ref.
B03-15) and in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (Reg. 11900301) and
rated as of Regional Importance. An Architectural Architect carried out an
Architectural Heritage Impact Assessment (AHIA) Report on the bridge and reviewed
any residual impact of the works and corresponding mitigation measures. A key
conclusion from the assessment included: (The full AHIA is included in Appendix C)
‘The residual impact of these works after mitigation measures will ensure that the
fabric of the Bridge is secure. The Bridge will continue in its current function and
construction works proposed will not unduly compromise the bridge. The proposed
construction of the cycle ramp can be removed or replaced in time’
6.0
Local Domestic and Agricultural Properties
6.1
Domestic Properties
There are no adjoining domestic properties along the route between Kilmore and
Moyvalley. There is a commercial business in Furey’s Pub which is located adjacent
to the proposed ramp at Moyvalley Bridge, refer to drawings for details.
6.2
Agricultural Properties
The proposed route between Kilmore and Moyvalley Bridges does not pass through
any agricultural properties and no agricultural access points are located along its
1.8km route.
7.0
ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION
As a result of the above assessment and in order to ensure the proposed cycleway
and footway does not significantly impact on the environment the following mitigation
measures will be included within the Works Contract to ensure protection of the
environment, in particular flora and fauna, landscape and visual and cultural heritage.
7.1
Flora and Fauna Mitigation
A Project ecologist will be appointed for the construction duration of the project and
will have particular regard to the sensitivity of the site including the findings of all
mammal and habitats surveys.
7.1.1 Protection of the Royal Canal linear habitat

All tree felling and scrub removal will be kept to a minimum during construction
phase

The footprint of works will be identified at the onset of works and will be
demarcated to avoid unnecessary disturbance to habitats outside the works
area.
7.1.2 Protection of wildlife

Should badger setts be identified in proximity to the proposed scheme they will
be fenced off to ensure protection during the construction phase of
Ref: 12.221.10
Part VIII Planning Proposal
March 2015
Page 10
Roughan & O’Donovan - AECOM
Consulting Engineers
development
identified
Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
and a buffer zone between a sett and work area/buildings

Appropriate screening will be provided in proximity to badgers setts to minimise
disturbance during operation of the project

Mature Trees will not be pruned or felled that have been identified in the
Ecological Assessment (Refer to Appendix B).

Any hedgerow clearance will be carried out outside the bird nesting season (1st
March to the 31st August), in order to avoid damage to nests and young.

No work should be carried out on any of the bridge structure outside of the
immediate ramp and parapet area, this is to ensure that possible bat roosts
along the parapet to the east of the ramp area (including the viewing
platform/area jutting out) will not be affected.
7.1.3 Best Practice Water Quality / Pollution Prevention Measures

All material including oils, solvents and paints will be stored within temporary
bunded areas or dedicated bunded containers;

Where possible refuelling will take place in a designated bunded area away
from surface water gullies, drains and water bodies, in the event of refuelling
outside of this area, fuel will be transported in a mobile double skinned tank;

All machinery and plant used will be regularly maintained and serviced and will
comply with appropriate standards to ensure that leakage of diesel, oil and
lubricants is prevented.

Spill kits and hydrocarbon absorbent packs will be available and drip trays will
be used during refuelling;

All relevant personnel will be fully trained in the use of this equipment;

Where soil/made ground and subsoil stripping occurs, the resulting excavated
soil fractions will be segregated into inert, non-hazardous and /or hazardous
fractions (in accordance with Council Decision 2003/33/EC, the EPA water
classification criteria at certain licensed landfills in Ireland);

The excavation and handling of inert material will be carefully managed in such
a way as to prevent any potential negative impact on the receiving water
environment;

Where possible the excavated spoil would not be stored beyond the working
day, however in the event that this is not practical appropriate precautions in
relation to the material will be taken. These precautions will include appropriate
storage and covering;

All associated hazardous construction waste will be stored within temporary
bunded storage areas prior to removal by an appropriate EPA or Local
Authority approved waste management contractor;

The guidelines provided by the Department of the Marine and Natural
Resources, with respect to concrete wash waters, CIRIA, the UK Environment
Agency and Environment and Heritage Service, the UK Department of the
Environment and Inland Fisheries Ireland will be adhered to in order to ensure
that there is a neutral impact on the water environment during the construction
phase of the proposed development.
Ref: 12.221.10
Part VIII Planning Proposal
March 2015
Page 11
Roughan & O’Donovan - AECOM
Consulting Engineers
Kilmore to Moyvalley Shared Cycleway and Footway
Kildare County Council
7.1.4 Eradication of Invasive species
7.2
8.0

A survey will be carried out to map the extent of invasive species (if any) and
an Invasive Species Management Plan will be put in place prior to
commencement of construction.

An eradication programme will be put in place which will also prevent spread
during construction.

Treatment / monitoring will be carried out for a minimum of 3 years.

Treatment will be carried out by a suitably qualified person and will involve the
use of herbicides approved for working in proximity to an aquatic environment.

A bio-security protocol will be put in place during the construction phase of the
development. This will ensure that all plant machinery and equipment will be
thoroughly cleaned and inspected for any fragments of knotweed prior to
leaving site.

All construction staff will receive training in the identification and management
of the invasive species, including identification of knotweed rhizomes, to verify
the clearance of any area.
Architectural Heritage and landscape

All design features will be sympathetic to Moyvalley Bridge a heritage feature.

Further consultation will be undertaken with the conservation officer from
Kildare County Council at detailed design stage.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS
The project is formally advertised for public consultation from Tuesday the 28th of April
2015 and will be available for inspection during office hours at the offices of Kildare County
Council, Level 4, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas and Maynooth Community Library, Main
Street, Maynooth, Co. Kildare up to Thursday the 11th of June 2015. Submissions and
observations may be made in writing to:
A/Senior Executive Officer,
Roads Transportation & Public Safety,
Kildare County Council,
Aras Chill Dara,
Devoy Park, Naas,
Co. Kildare.
on or before 12 noon on Friday the 26th of June 2015.
9.0
PROJECT DELIVERY
It is estimated that the proposed scheme will cost in the region of €0.4 million. It is
anticipated that construction would take a period of approximately 2-3 months.
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Part VIII Planning Proposal
March 2015
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Appendix A - Drawings
Appendix B – Ecology Assessment
Appendix C – Architectural Heritage Impact
Assessment