Green light for new bridge in Kilkenny
Plans to construct a shared pedestrian and cyclist bridge between Coote’s Lane and the Ring Road in Kilkenny City have been given the green light.
Initiation works are now expected to commence in July/August with construction to follow in Q3 of this year.
The new bridge is expected to help meet the aims and recommendations found in the Kilkenny Local Transport Plan.
Another primary objective of the bridge is to allow for the creation of a cycle route between the Eastern Environs and the ever-developing Breagagh Valley.
Public lighting is also planned to allow for the use of the bridge throughout the whole day and to improve security.
The impact of the proposed new development at the site on archaeological heritage has been assessed as slight, with mitigation measures ready to be implemented as necessary.
At present, an old ford crossing of the River Breagagh still remains in the area. It used to accommodate the crossing of horse-drawn carriages in the past.
There was also a footbridge at the location until the 1940s.