New bridge across the Shannon receiving acclaim for beautiful design

The new Shannon Bridge Crossing, which is one kilometre south of the current bridge in Killaloe Ballina, is substantially completed and is receiving acclaim from many quarters for its beautiful and traditional design.

The official opening of the bridge is dependent on the new regional road, the R494. A mid-2025 opening is expected for the new R494 regional Ballina to Birdhill road and therefore for the bridge itself.

There has been a lot of praise from members of the general public on the internet for the new construction. "The old bridge in Killaloe Ballina," wrote one person, "really is a choke point for traffic. I think it should also be acknowledged that they didn't just put in some sort of modern poured concrete thing like over a motorway, but opted for a design that is more sympathetic to the surroundings."

"A real beauty!" wrote another.

"Quite a nice design," commented a third. "The existing bridge is a nightmare, especially for pedestrians."

"Looks like someone actually sat down and designed a beautiful people friendly bridge," said a fourth. "Well done to the sensitive designers! As minimalistic as possible, no fancy pylons or cables. Great design. Also, that stone wall looks fantastic."

Not everyone is happy with it however. Cllr Phyll Bugler told a recent Nenagh Municipal District meeting that some people in Killaloe Ballina are worried that the new bridge will have an adverse effect on the town's retailers. She said she and others in the town are worried that when the new bridge opens there will be “a lot less footfall.”