Plan needed for traders as town faces ‘open heart surgery’

Targeted financial and practical supports must be put in place for local traders ahead of major flood relief works beginning in Bantry town in 2027.

That’s according to Fine Gael county councillor Caroline Cronin who, at Monday’s council meeting, brought forward a motion calling for a comprehensive economic impact assessment to be carried out as soon as possible.

Highlighting the delicate financial position of many town centre traders, Cllr Cronin emphasised the need to safeguard local commerce while long-overdue flood infrastructure is installed.

“We must save Bantry from future flooding, but we must also protect the businesses that are the backbone of our local economy,” Cllr Cronin said.

In her motion, Ms Cronin called for a range of practical measures, including commercial rate relief, improved signage, promotional shop-local campaigns, and temporary parking provisions to sustain trade throughout the construction period.

Seconding the motion, local business owner Cllr Danny Collins warned of the sheer scale of disruption facing the commercial core as major culvert works pass through key thoroughfares and Wolfe Tone Square.

The Independent Ireland councillor said: “This is going to be like open heart surgery in the middle of Bantry town. There’s a lot of uncertainty out there as to what effects it’s going to cause for the businesses that are in the town.”

Also supporting the motion, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) reflected on flood relief schemes in other Cork towns, noting that while civil works inevitably cause heavy disruption, the final outcome remains vital for the town's future.

“What’s key to keep in the back of your mind is that the result is fantastic — it’s a whole new life with no flooding,” he said.

Cllr Hayes added that securing experienced contractors to complete the job efficiently will be critical to helping businesses survive the period of reduced turnover.

Council officials confirmed that planning is underway to minimise disruption, promising direct engagement with traders alongside temporary parking and signage strategies.