Upgrade works nearing completion at two popular Kilkenny locations

Works to complete the new bridge linking Cootes Lane to the Ring Road and the construction of the replacement boardwalk at the Lacken are expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

The developments illustrate Kilkenny County Council’s priority of investing in cycling and other smarter travel projects in a bid to support the concept of a '10-minute city’.

A 10-minute city seeks to have all community facilities and services accessible within a 10-minute walk or cycle from homes.

Earlier this month, the structure of the new Cootes Lane bridge was lifted into place with works ongoing.

The local authority are hopeful to have the bridge substantially complete before Christmas but it’s not expected to be open to the public until early in the new year.

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According to a council spokesperson, the bridge deck and raised approaches are 70% complete, public lighting has been installed but not connected to the ESB network, while fencing on approach is 50% complete but works on the footpaths have yet to be completed.

Meanwhile, works continue on the replacement boardwalk at the Lacken with works 90% completed.

The focus at the moment is on the completion of the accessibility ramp and stairs at the Ossory Pedestrian Bridge end and it is expected the bridge will reopen to the public later this week.

The local authority remain confident that this new bespoke piece of amenity infrastructure will be opened, in time, for the Christmas break.

The new boardwalk will be more accessible to wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility and to those with prams as well as dog walkers.