Progress at Sessiaghoneill Bridge, Ballybofey

The development of a footbridge at Sessiaghoneill, Ballybofey moved a step closer this week with the news that the acquisition of the land needed was almost complete.

According to Donegal County Council's report on the development pedestrians travelling along this route are required to walk within the carriageway for a distance of almost 100m which creates a major hazard for both road users and pedestrians.

"Donegal County Council proposes to construct a footbridge over the Burn Daurnett River, downstream of the Sessiaghoneill Bridge on the LP-3054 to provide a safe dedicated shared route for pedestrians and cyclists connecting into the existing pedestrian infrastructure.

"This proposed project will then complete the pedestrian route from Sessiaghoneill to
Ballybofey and will provide a safe shared pedestrian and cycle route to the Sessiaghoneill
School as well as encourage modal shift. For these reasons, the project is considered an
essential part of the infrastructure required," it said.

Cllr Patrick McGowan raised the issue at Monday's meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District when it emerged in a report that negotiations to secure the land for the bridge were concluding.

"Does that mean they have concluded, after all, they have been going on for ten years?

Senior roads engineer Claire McGeever told him an agreement had been reached for the land.

"It just has to be finalised. It's sitting with the landowner. The executive engineer is going to be following up on that," she said.

He also raised a query about another bridge outside the town. He pointed out that Logue's Bridge on Glenfin Road was very important.

"A lot of farmers and locals are very frustrated with the barriers and weight restrictions. It also acts as a mini bypass for the two towns."

Ms McGeever said the situation at this bridge would also be examined.