Angler groups in Limerick yesterday expressed anger at a joint decision by Limerick and Clare County Councils to grant planning permission to the University of Limerick for a £30 million expansion into Co Clare, writes Gordon Deegan.
The expansion of the college campus into Clonlara on the northern shore of the Shannon means a bridge will have to be built in a renowned salmon-angling area.
UL has revealed that the student village, with accommodation for 500, has been approved. It is also proposing to construct a nursing school for 600 students, a postgraduate school for the performing arts, three research institutes and further student accommodation as well as community and social developments on the 100-acre site.
The Shannon Mulcair and District Anglers' Association and Limerick and District Anglers' Association yesterday said they would appeal the councils' decision to An Bord Pleanβla.
The councils have ordered UL to carry out construction work in the channel area of the bridge only between August 15th and October 31st to lessen the impact on the fish population.
Mr Andy McCallion of the Shannon Mulcair and District Anglers' Association said anglers were devastated. "We are not opposed to the overall proposal, just the location of the bridge. From an angler's perspective, it couldn't have been placed at a worse location and would destroy one of the best salmon fisheries in western Europe."