Concern over stadium threat to otter survival

An Taisce is concerned over the impact a proposed €20 million greyhound stadium on the fringes of Limerick city could have on otters in the River Shannon.

Otters are protected under the EU habitats directive. In a submission to Clare County Council, An Taisce states that the welfare of the otters is its main concern in relation to the impact the development will have on mammals in the area. It also has concerns about heritage, habitats, flora and mammals.

Bord na gCon plans to construct the five-storey stadium and a three-storey office building in Meelick in southeast Clare which will employ 100 people. It will include betting facilities, two restaurants and four bars, with a dance floor and function areas.

The anticipated annual turnover is €8 million to €10 million.

The future of the otters has also caused concern in the Government's National Parks and Wildlife Service.

In its submission to the council, the service asks that the developers be obliged carry out a second survey of otters in the Lower River Shannon Special Area of Conservation. The service said the first survey contained in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was inconclusive because of heavy rainfall.

The new survey, it said, should review mitigation measures in the light of these findings.

It suggests consideration be given to underpasses or safe routes for otters to traverse the existing N18. "If forced on to the road, otters will be killed and this would also create a hazard for road traffic."

On the impact the development will have on birds, the National Parks and Wildlife Service says that part of the site lies within the River Shannon Special Protection Area, which is recognised as the second most important site for wintering birds in Ireland.

The service calls for dedicated wintering and breeding bird surveys. A decision is due on the application later this month.