The European Commission is to be asked to withdraw funding from Galway's controversial £1.5 million river walk scheme, which has aroused strong opposition in the city.
"Very sad" is the reaction of Galway city manager Mr Joe Gavin to the decision by a consortium of groups to appeal to Brussels. The appeal is being spearheaded by the Woodquay and District Residents' Association, and is supported by An Taisce, Birdwatch Ireland, Cairde na Gaillimhe and the Galway Bat Group.
The EU is funding 50 per cent of the cost of the project, which has aroused wide opposition since work began at the end of the summer along the river Corrib.
Since then, the city manager has proposed several amendments to the original plan, following a consultants' report compiled for Galway Corporation.
The environmental groups say the appeal is being lodged "because of Galway Corporation's failure to engage in proper consultation and environmental protection, contrary to Community law".
"For the sake of wildlife in the city centre, we would like to see the last remaining natural greenery on the river wall preserved, no further pointing of stone unless absolutely necessary, installation of wooden seats, and not stone slabs, right along the walk, and no more invasive sycamores," the appellants state.
"Finally, in this year of the older citizen, we would like to see the green strip of Woodquay, which means so much to our older residents, totally preserved." The city manager maintains there has been extensive consultation and the action is "totally unnecessary".
Work on the project has been continuing, apart from one section between Salmon Weir Bridge and Steamer's Quay which was halted at the request of city councillors.
Mr Gavin said last week he hoped a final decision would be taken on completing this section at a council meeting in City Hall tonight. The delay had added to the expense of a scheme which was designed to enhance Galway considerably, he stressed.