designed to provide maximum protection for people and their homes while at the same
time having minimal impact on the existing environment
The 16km Morell River, near Naas in County Kildare, is a tributary of the River Liffey. It runs from Slieveroe, through Naas, Johnstown and Straffan, where it meets the River Liffey. Its tributaries include the Hartwell, Haynestown, Slane and Kill Rivers.
Over the years, the Morell River and its tributaries have been responsible for serious flooding events in the townlands of Killeenmore, Turnings, Ballyhays, Sherlockstown, Tuckmilltown, Blackchurch and Killeen, resulting in significant damages to property and businesses.
Now, Kildare County Council, with the support of the OPW, is leading the €11 million Morell River Flood Management Scheme (FMS) to protect homes and businesses from flooding. The scheme is being designed to provide maximum protection for people and their homes while at the same time having minimal impact on the existing environment.
Press Release
Approval from An Bord Pleanála
Kildare County Council received Approval from An Bord Pleanála for the Morell Flood Management Scheme on the 27th April 2018.
The Scheme comprises of:
Construction is expected to commence this summer and works will be undertaken over the next three years. The scheme will be constructed by the Office of Public Works, who are also the funding authority.
The Morell River catchment in County Kildare has been subject to serious recurring flooding in past two decades, resulting in significant damages to property and businesses. When completed, the Morell Flood Management Scheme will positively affect the people of the area who have suffered from the significant flooding in previous years.
To read An Bord Pleanála’s Report visit www.pleanala.ie/casenum/JA0042
Construction Commenced
Construction activity commenced in the Turnings area in August 2020. Works will continue throughout winter 2020-21 in the Tuckmilltown area.
Construction Progress
As of January 2024, construction is complete on 5,250 linear meters of flood defences.
Planning granted by An Bord Pleanála.
A judicial review of the planning decision was sought by a landowner.
Agreement was reached for the withdrawal of the judicial review.
Construction activity started in Turnings and Tuckmilltown.
Construction continued in Turnings and Tuckmilltown.
Construction continues in Turnings, Tuckmilltown, Ballyhays, Kill and Killeen.
Construction continued. All works on the Slane river completed.
Construction will continue in the Killeen and Sherlockstown areas.
Expected completion date when homes, businesses and amenities within the scheme outline will be protected from flooding under the Morell River Flood Management Scheme