A swimming ban at one of the most popular beaches on the west coast has been lifted in time for the busy summer season, following repair and upgrade works by Irish Water.
A 'Do not swim' notice was placed on Kilkee beach on the Loop Head peninsula in Co Clare last December as a precaution after heavy rainfall caused a safety device at the local wastewater pumping station located at Victoria Park on the Well Road to fail.
Pipes from the pumping station are directed to the beach and out to sea.
Work on the installation of a new surge protection system to replace the one which failed, as well as new pipework to replace aging pipes in the pumping station, and an improved electrical system has all been completed in the past week enabling Clare County Council and the HSE to life the swim prohibition notice.
The lifting of the swimming ban will be welcomed by local people and holiday makers alike.
Kilkee is one of the top summer holiday destinations for thousands of families across the west and midwest.
Local businesses and tourist visitor centres along the Loop Head peninsula rely heavily on tourism income over the tourist season from May to the end of September.
