Midleton residents rally over stalled flood defence plans and funding delays

Nearly five hundred residents gathered in Midleton on Saturday to press for concrete flood protection after Storm Babet devastated the area in 2023, causing up to €200 million in damage. The Midleton and East Cork Flood Protection Group warned that the community remains vulnerable, noting that the flood defence scheme has missed several planning deadlines. Spokeswoman Mona Stromsoe said locals still fear a repeat of the catastrophic flooding.

Earlier this month, Minister of State Kevin “Boxer” Moran disclosed €1.1 million for short-term mitigation in nearby villages and a broader €14 million package for east Cork. He also announced a €5.8 million investment to start advance works in Tir Cluain, aimed at protecting 135 properties, while the council awaits final planning documents to submit a full application for a scheme covering 750 homes.