Appeal to take HGVs off restored medieval bridge in Kilkenny

A recently-restored bridge that was first built in medieval times shouldn’t be used by heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), says one local councillor.

Speaking at the January meeting of Callan Thomastown municipal council, Cllr Deirdre Cullen raised her concerns about Ennisnag Bridge, near Stoneyford - which is thought to be one of the oldest bridges in Ireland that is still in use.

“In my opinion HGVs don’t need to use that bridge,” she said, asking that a traffic count be done to ascertain numbers of vehicles crossing the bridge.

Heavy rains causing flooding in ‘areas of Kilkenny never flooded before’

Appeal for funding for flood prevention works

Late last year renovation works were completed on Ennisnag Bridge, giving it a new lease of life.
The stone bridge first shows up in the 1641 Down Survey and it may have been preceded by a wooden structure. In the 18th century work was carried out to widen the bridge from eight feet to 16 feet wide.

The structure is special, according to Francis Coady, Architectural Conservation Officer with Kilkenny County Council, as you can still decipher the lines of both bridges, from the masonry underneath.
Underneath the bridge you can also see the marks of the wicker centering from the medieval stone builders.

Intimidation: People afraid to visit graves at Kilkenny cemetery

Last year, following a conservation survey, funds were allocated to carry out the sealing of the stone verges and repair the masonry. €25,000 from the Historic Structures Fund, administered by the Department of Housing, Local Government, allowed for the works to take place.

At the recent council meeting, Cllr Cullen said residents and businesses in the area use the bridge, accessing it from both sides. Some HGVs might be crossing the bridge needlessly, she said.
A traffic survey will show the amount of HGVS, she added.
She said the council should look at the matter “given the amount of work done and how old it is.”

New Kilkenny City Harriers half-marathon record

Stopping HGVs crossing Ennisnag Bridge would protect it, she suggested.
Area Engineer, Declan Murphy, said a total ban on HGVs crossing the bridge would bring its own complications, but he agreed to carry out a traffic survey and they can ‘take it from there.’