Following recommendations from an independent inspection of the Old Pier at Keelbeg in Union Hall, Cork County Council says that “in order to improve safety” it is obliged to close the pier to public access.
The move has been met with dismay from the local community, with Myross Rowing Club among those calling for the pier to be upgraded rather than closed entirely.
It its reasoning, the club lists the pier’s long history and role in Union Hall’s heritage along with its use for recreational purposes and as a shelter for vessel in southeasterly winds, as well as providing access for fishing boats and leisure craft spilling over from “an already overcrowded new pier”.
It also highlights that funding has been secured for upgrades on other small piers along the West Cork coast and asks: “Why not Union Hall?”
Written comments, remarks and suggestions on the council’s plans can be submitted to the Harbour Master, Harbour Master’s Office, Skibbereen, P81 RC 21 or by email to [email protected] by close of business this Wednesday 13 April.