Brand new Kilkenny City development 'a bridge to the future'

One of Kilkenny’s historical links was restored when Rosehill Bridge on Coote’s Lane was officially opened in Kilkenny City on Monday.

Councillors and TDs from across the political spectrum were present for the opening, its significance best illustrated by the presence of every TD from both sides of the Carlow-Kilkenny constituency.

The bridge was delivered by Kilkenny County Council, funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority’s Active Travel Investment Scheme.

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Donnelly Civil Engineering Ltd successfully installed the 16.5m span steel bridge over the River Breagagh as part of the Coote’s Lane Active Travel Scheme. The 12-tonne steel structure was designed by Kilgallen and Partners Consulting Engineers Ltd (who have an office in Kilkenny) and was lifted into position using a 110t mobile crane. 

Kilkenny County Council have emphasised the priority of investing in cycling and other smarter travel projects in a bid to support the concept of a '10-minute city' which seeks to have all community facilities and services accessible within a 10-minute walk or cycle from homes.

"This new bridge is more than just a crossing. It continues a history of access across the River Breagagh at this point," said Area Engineer Stan Cullen.

"It represents a commitment to a greener, healthier, more sustainable and accessible Kilkenny, providing a safe and scenic route for pedestrians and cyclists and it will serve our students, commuters, local residents and visitors for many years to come."

Minister Darragh O’Brien commended the completed project and committed to ongoing investment in active travel infrastructure to deliver other key links in the city.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael McCarthy, emphasised the bridge’s crucial role in active travel locally.

"Rosehill Bridge is a bridge to the past, a bridge to the future, and most importantly, a bridge for the people of Kilkenny,” he said. “This project underscores our commitment to sustainable transport and community connectivity."

Mayor of Kilkenny, Cllr. Andrew McGuinness, said, "This is more than just a bridge; it is a vital piece of infrastructure, restoring an historic link and providing a safe, accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists."

Other elected officials echoed these sentiments throughout the morning. Among them, Cllr Joe Malone looked forward to using the route as a resident in the area.

Meanwhile, Cllr David Fitzgerald spoke of his fond childhood memories using the route to walk to school, while Cllr Sean Ó hArgain recalled his role in pushing for the removal of traffic on Coote’s Lane.