THE DOOLIN PIER project in Co Clare has been the subject of a long-standing battle between the surf community and the local authority.
The council is determined to go ahead in building a pier that they say is vital for the greater good for all users of the area. However the surfers believe that the completion of the project will destroy some of the best surf breaks in the country at Crab Island and Doolin Point.
This week, the surfers’ argument received a massive boost as the chief executive of one of the world’s largest surf apparel companies; Derek O’Neill of Billabong, intervened in the row.
O’Neill’s letter was part of a submission lodged by the Irish Surf Association and the West Coast Surf Club and was one of 176 received by the council in opposition to the €6million project. In the letter, he states, “The pier threatens the area’s potential to develop sustainable surf tourism.”
However earlier this year the town council voted unanimously in favour of the pier and now only need a foreshore license from the Department of Environment in order to proceed. The closing date for submissions for or against the project has now expired and the surf community will have to wait to see if they have been successful in saving this much-loved surf area from the bulldozers.
Good waves everyone…
Weather Overview
Well it’s another incredibly difficult chart to read this week. The massive storm swells of the past while have moved on and we find ourselves sandwiched between a small low system to the north and a ridge of high pressure. Again this means lots of onshore winds but it shouldn’t be as bad as the washing machine like conditions we have been experiencing.
The north – A slim chance of the wind swinging southerly early Sunday morning with a good 4m swell running in the area. If it does, this will be the best chance of a decent session in the country, so be prepared for an early start.
Co Donegal/Sligo – Prevailing on shore for most of the weekend. While not particularly strong it may gust up to 54kph at some points. Swell is at its peak late Saturday/early Sunday so could hold up then.
Co Clare – Bang onshore all weekend, making a mess of any swell, of which there will be little. Be prepared to be bashed about, as there will be more white water than blue.
Dingle Peninsula – Like the weather, the waves will be just as inconsistent. Westerly winds won’t do any of the peninsula’s breaks any favours.
Cork & the South – To quote @oflahertyb on Twitter “Its [a] total blown out bag o’s*** round here. Been over a month since I’ve seen a clean wave” and I’m afraid sir it’ll be a while longer till you see one.
Disclaimer – These weather reports are intended as a general overview of swell running in that area. These are predictions and actual wave size may vary. Do not enter the water alone or without adequate equipment and do not enter surf that is too large for your abilities. We cannot be held responsible for any decisions you make based on this information. For daily weather information follow @dinglesurf on Twitter.com.
