BREAKING: Historic Tipperary bridge to close permanently to traffic from Friday

The historic bridge linking Ballina and Killaloe will close permanently to vehicular traffic from 6pm this Friday, 17 October, following an executive decision by Tipperary County Council and Clare County Council. The bridge will remain open as a pedestrian and cycle link between the twin towns.

The decision marks the conclusion of a trial period to pedestrianise the old bridge, during which both councils gathered extensive data and consulted with the public under a formal Section 38 process.

According to data collected before and during the trial, closing the bridge to vehicles did not negatively affect traffic flows in either town. The pedestrianisation trial also highlighted the bridge’s value as a safer space for walkers and cyclists, and its potential as a venue for local tourism and promotional events.

Tipperary County Council’s Director of Services for Roads, Transportation, Health & Safety, and Nenagh Municipal District, Liam Brett, said the councils had listened carefully to local feedback before making the decision.

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“We have heard clearly the wishes and concerns of all stakeholders,” he said. “We acknowledge the opening of the €90 million bypass and bridge brings change as well as potential to the community and business environment. Both councils recognise this and are committed to working with local businesses to promote Killaloe–Ballina as a place for businesses, both existing and future, to develop and grow stronger. Pedestrianisation of the existing bridge can become a cornerstone of the tourist offering for Killaloe and Ballina.”

Nenagh Councillor Louise Morgan Walsh welcomed the decision, saying it follows months of collaboration between both councils’ executives and elected members.

“Following this morning’s meeting with Tipperary County Council and Clare County Council executives and councillors regarding the ending of the trial period to pedestrianise the old historic bridge, it was decided that the bridge will close permanently to all vehicular traffic from 6pm this Friday,” she said.

The move coincides with the completion and full opening of the new €90 million Killaloe Bypass and Shannon Crossing, which provides a modern alternative route for motorists travelling between the towns.