Alternative routes for Corrib gas pipeline outlined

http://www.mayoadvertiser.com/index.php?aid=2521
The Mayo Advertiser
Eight alternative routes for the Corrib gas pipeline as identified by RPS consultants.
RPS, the independent consultants employed by the Corrib Gas Partners to find a new modified route for the Corrib onshore gas pipeline, have outlined eight possible alternatives.
Using land registry searches, RPS has identified over 200 registered landowners (including those with a share in commonage) on the broad corridors (each corridor is circa 300 metres wide) and has written to them and invited them to an open evening at the Broadhaven Bay Hotel this week. Alternative consultation arrangements are in place for any landowners who were unable to attend.
Over the next month RPS will carry out further technical work on the corridors and will seek input from the community and statutory bodies before making a full evaluation of all options. RPS will then short-list preferred route corridors and will communicate these publicly.
PJ Rudden, RPS, Director said: “We have made every effort to be as comprehensive, transparent and open as possible about the criteria that will be used in the route selection process as well as being clear about the phases we are going through to find the best alternative route for the onshore Corrib pipeline. On behalf of Corrib Gas Partners, we are honouring the recommendation issued by Mr Peter Cassells to “modify the route of the pipeline in the vicinity of Rossport to address community concerns regarding proximity to housing”. We have therefore sent letters to over 200 registered landowners in the pipeline study area.”
Mr Rudden continued: “At this point, some of the corridors look to be more suitable than others, but we want to get the views of the local community and other interested parties before we begin ‘walkover’ surveys to identify a shortlist of preferred corridors next month. Landowner agreement will be sought before any lands are included in these walk-over surveys.”