240 year old Kildare bridge 'can't cope with traffic'

A bridge spanning the Grand Canal in west Kildare needs to be protected by traffic calming measures.

Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly and party councillor Paula Mulroe say these need to be implemented to preserve the structure, Healy’s Bridge.

They have been in contact with Waterways Ireland, which has responsibility for the bridge and which has spent €100,000 in the past year.

The bridge is situated on a busy route between Prosperous and Kilmeague.

It crosses the canal at Downings and was hit by traffic a number of times throughout 2025 and 2026.

According to the politicians a spokesperson for Waterways Ireland said that it was actively working with Kildare County Council to find a solution to the matter.

READ NEXT Woman sleeps with ladder against door because of 'out of control husband,' Kildare court told

“Healy’s Bridge is a traditional humpback canal bridge built in the late 1790’s and not really fit for modern day traffic volumes,” Cllr Mulroe stated.

“The bridge has been hit by traffic a number of times in the recent past and damaged – seriously enough that navigation on the canal had to be halted while repairs were being conducted.

“Locals who have been in touch with me say they would prefer to see traffic calming measures on either side of the bridge to prevent any further damage.

“We have reached out to Kildare County Council on this in the past and they have rejected the possibility of traffic lights and a stop/go system as a way to preserve the bridge.

“Doing nothing about it is certainly not an option.

“Whatever is done, the current volume of traffic is not sustainable over a 230 year old bridge that was built to carry horses and carts,” the Prosperous-based councillor said.

In early February a collision caused bridge debris to enter the water and resulted in damage to the parapet.

Waterways Ireland said at the time that the damage poses “a significant risk” to navigation and public safety.