Kilkenny bridge works back on track

Road users, pedestrians and cyclists in Kilkenny have expressed concern following the perceived lack of progress on the N10 Ring Road at Ossory Bridge on the outskirts of the city. 

Earlier this year, it was announced that a €250,000 scheme by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TFI) was granted to widen the footpaths at Ossory Bridge, with works commencing last May. 

Kilkenny County Council has confirmed that during these works an issue arose with regard to the bridge support structure and works were halted to examine the issue and “develop an appropriate solution to address the problem identified.”

Following consultations, agreement was reached to resume works in mid-July. 

Kilkenny Chamber says its members have been flagging the ongoing delays, while one resident in the area said: “It’s very frustrating to go through the traffic delays experienced as a result of works on Ossory Bridge. From 4.30 to 6.30pm every evening, cars are bumper to bumper. It makes crossing the Ring Road at peak times a total no go. I fear for what it will be like when schools return.”

Seamus Kavanagh, senior engineer with Kilkenny County Council said: “Works are progressing on the eastern side of Ossory Bridge with the specialist waterproofing now substantially complete,” the council representative also confirmed a number of measures that would be put in place to increase safety on the bridge.

These measures include a parapet railing which is due to be delivered to site in early September,  the renewal of bridge deck waterproofing to allow for the construction of the new footpath and cycleway, modifications to the Bennettsbridge roundabout, bridge deck joints and public lighting modifications.

Works are scheduled to be completed in November 2023.