10.5.4 Rivers, Canals and the Coastline

River habitats and river water quality are influenced by activities along the length of a river’s path and therefore transboundary co-operation is required for effective river management. In relation to Dublin’s canals, co-operation with relevant statutory bodies is important in improving amenity and biodiversity, and linking to the green infrastructure network. Dublin city’s coastline is also a valuable amenity, and any recreational amenities along the coastline should be sustainably designed and carefully sited.

River walks and cycleways, where appropriate, can be developed in the riparian zone if sensitively designed and implemented in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland. The creation and/or enhancement of riparian buffer zones is recommended where possible because, if sufficiently large and managed appropriately, these will maintain or create habitats necessary for fish and other aquatic life, filter out pollutants and sediments from over-land surface run-off, provide significant amenity and recreational value, and enhance flood management.