Works on destroyed Kilkenny bridge used by many need to be ‘pushed on’

Calls have been made for a damaged pedestrian bridge on the border of Kilkenny and Tipperary to be restored as soon as possible as local authorities continue to explore delivery options and funding avenues.

The River Lingaun pedestrian bridge at Killonerry was significantly damaged by a recent flood event and is now “no longer fit for purpose,” according to an update presented to elected members of the Piltown Municipal District.

The bridge, which falls under the joint responsibility of Kilkenny County Council and Tipperary County Council, has already seen initial safety measures put in place.

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The damaged section on the Kilkenny side has been removed, while access on the Tipperary side has been fenced off to protect the public.

Cllr Pat Dunphy stressed the urgency of moving the project forward, telling the meeting that “we need to push this on now” adding that “quite a lot has to be done” to restore the crossing.

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Funding for a replacement structure is expected to be sought under the next round of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).

Area Engineer John Tennyson said both local authorities “will continue to work in tandem” to advance the project.

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He added that “it might be a joint venture or Kilkenny will take the lead and seek a Section 85,” referring to a formal agreement that allows one local authority to carry out works on behalf of another.

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