Ecological Assessments of Harbour Improvement / Redevelopment, Cape Clear Island, North Harbour, Co. Cork

Summary:

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) proposed to undertake reconstruction and improvement works on the Cape Clear Harbour in County Cork. The harbour is located within a small bay on the Island of Cape Clear. The bay in which the harbour is located forms part of the Roaringwater Bay and Islands Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Roaringwater Bay and Islands is a site of exceptional conservational importance, supporting diverse marine and terrestrial habitats, five of which are listed under the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is notable for the presence of Otter, Grey Seal and Harbour Porpoise, and is regularly visited by a number of different cetaceans. The islands also support important sea bird colonies.

Scope:

A suite of detailed ecological surveys and assessments for both marine and terrestrial habitats and species were undertaken by the MOR Ecology Team.

• Detailed desk-based studies;
• Field based surveys for:
  • Habitat assessments
  • Marine Mammals
  • Otter
  • Intertidal and Sub-tidal Surveys
• Detailed GIS mapping
• Consultation with statutory bodies and NGO’s
• Preparation of:
  • Environmental Impact Report (EIR)
  • Natura Impact Statement
  • Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP)

Outputs:

Planning permission was granted by Cork County Council, and the works have been successfully completed.