South Donegal GAA club gains planning permission for new footbridge
CLG Chill Chartha obtains permission in lead up to Comórtas Peile na Gaeltachta
A Donegal GAA club in Kilcar has gained planning permission for the construction of a new pedestrian bridge to be built at its Towney Park grounds.
Michael Molloy, on behalf of CLG Chill Chartha, successfully applied for the erection of a new pedestrian bridge over the Ballaghadoo River, with a new adjoining sensory garden and all other associated site development works.
CLG Chill Chartha is hosting the Comórtas Peile na Gaeltachta Championship in June 2026, an annual Gaelic Football competition contested by clubs from Gaeltacht areas, and the proposed bridge will link the club grounds directly into the centre of the village, “thereby providing an accessible alternative that the use of the local coastal road that is heavily trafficked and that lacks a footpath for most of the way.”
The proposed footbridge will link the club pitch to the village, via the L-5235-1, whilst the garden comprises an area of approximately 140 sqm and is adjacent to a permitted pedestrian walk that encircles the pitch.
Within the Planner’s Report, the principle of the development was highlighted, which stated: “Whilst the need for the footbridge is immediate with regard to the upcoming event, it will also serve those from the village and national school to access the pitch on foot or by bicycle in future.
“The link will also create a safe walking route for the community from the village to the pitch on a recreational level.
“Permission has been granted for a footpath around the entire site area as part of the GAA Healthy Clubs initiative.”
Donegal County Council granted planning permission for the proposal with eight conditions, imposed to prevent flooding, traffic safety reasons, preserve the amenities of the area, and ensure orderly development.
It was imposed that all works shall be carried out in consultation with, and completed to the satisfaction of Inland Fisheries Ireland, to ensure the integrity and preservation of the Ballaghadoo River, designated EU habitats, and their qualifying interests.