[6.8] Ecological Corridors The Cork City Habitat Study is currently underway. Amongst other things, the study will help identify important ecological corridors. Ecological corridors may include areas such as hedgerows, treelines, scrub, wetlands, and river banks and valleys. For example, the rivers and streams in the Cork City Council area are shown in Figure 6.5. In addition to the River Lee, there are eighteen smaller rivers and several streams flowing through the Cork City area. Trees located within these settings can often help stabilise riverbanks, reduce flooding, and improve water quality. However, it is also important to note that the Habitat Study may also identify some existing high value habitats (such as unshaded riverine areas), where further extensive tree planting may not be the best solution. The findings of the Habitat Study will feed directly into any tree planting plans in ecological corridors. It is also important to note that several riverbanks and other areas that form ecological corridors are in private ownership, so creating connectivity would require a partnership approach, community buy-in, and collaboration. Any strategies for riverbanks will also have regard to provisions of the respective river basin management plans.
ACTION 22. Incorporate details of tree planting in ecological corridors into the Tree Strategy following the development of the overarching approach to ecological corridors currently being developed as part of the city’s broader Green and Blue Infrastructure Strategy.
Figure 6.5 In addition to the River Lee, there are eighteen smaller rivers and several streams flowing through the Cork City area.
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