New tender for Ulster Canal works nearly ready

Tender documents for the next phase in progressing plans to develop the Ulster Canal are currently being completed, with an anticipated start date for works of Spring next year.
Waterways Ireland has informed the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys, that it is currently completing the tender documentation for the final stage of works to provide navigation to Castle Saunderson.
Subject to a successful tender and award process, it is proposed that works would start on site in Spring 2017 with an anticipated 18-month contract period.
The latest update came as result of a parliamentary question in the Dáil to the Minister’s office by fellow Cavan-Monaghan constituency colleague, Fianna Fáil’s Brendan Smith. He had asked for an update on the status of the restoration of the Ulster Canal and the timeframe for the provision of a jetty by Waterways Ireland at Castle Saunderson, County Cavan.
Responding, Minister Humphreys said that the reopening of the 2.5km stretch of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to the International Scout Centre at Castle Saunderson continues to progress.
The project, which comprises three work phases, is being undertaken by Waterways Ireland.
Phase 1, the site investigation work, and Phase 2, the dredging of the River Finn and removal of the dredging material, have now completed.
The Minister outlined the latest details in relation to the tender documentation, and expected start date for works, adding too that: “I am also advised by Waterways Ireland that it continues to engage with Cavan County Council, which owns the property at Castle Saunderson, regarding the provision of a jetty at that location.”