Geological Survey Ireland (GSI) participated in this FP7-funded project and assessed ground instability geohazard information for two of the most densely populated areas in the country, Co. Dublin and Cork City. By combining satellite measurements of ground and building movement with geological information already held by the Geological Survey and limited field validation GSI has developed maps and reports which show and describe areas of potential or observed ground instabilities.
The interpretation of Co. Dublin has led to the delineation of 9 polygons (areas) within which potential or observed ground instabilities have been identified. These polygons cover an area of c. 33.51 km² which is less than 4% of the entire Co. Dublin area. The main observed instabilities (by area) are those associated with compressible ground. The largest area of potential instability is associated with the peats of the Dublin Mountains which have the potential to give rise to instabilities associated with compressible ground. The report can be found here.
The interpretation of Cork City has led to the delineation of 5 polygons (areas) within which potential or observed ground instabilities have been identified. The main observed instabilities are associated with compressible ground. The largest area of potential instability is associated with the pure limestones which have the potential to give rise to instabilities associated with ground dissolution. In total 25.31 km² of the area (40 km²) is adjudged to have potential or observed ground instabilities. The report can be found here.
Data and viewer associated to this project can be accessed from the Geohazard page in the Data & Maps section.