'Dangerous eyesore' Laois bridge damaged for months after work for Irish Water

The repair of bridge that was badly damaged in January during work by Irish Water is overdue, according to a Laois councillor.

Cllr James Kelly, independent, raised the issue at a recent meeting in County Hall Portlaoise where he called on Laois County Council to intervene.

He tabled a motion calling for repairs to the bridge at Drim Water Treatment Plant, Paddock near Mountrath.

He also produced photographs at the meeting which he used as evidence to show the damage done which has yet to be resolved. The photos show that the walls of the bridge were knocked down.

He said the bridge was hit in January during works by Uisce Éireann when a crane collided with the wall. He insisted that its repair must be followed up.

“It is an eyesore and a danger,” he said. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Picture of the bridge.

Cllr Kelly said residents are impacted.

James Dowling, Senior Executive Engineer, in the council’s Roads section replied in writing that the Council have been seeking to work with the party responsible for the damage to “expedite” the repair. He said Uisce Éireann has not taken a position.

He also told Cllr Kelly that responsibility for damage has been accepted.

"We are still chasing,” said Mr Dowling.

Cllr Seamus McDonald, Fianna Fáil, said the repair was urgent.

The problem was highlighted at the July meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District.