A bridge over the River Barrow in Laois is in danger of falling into the river, unless repairs are carried out.
That’s according to Cllr Seamus McDonald who had on motion seeking an update on the bridge at Rearyvalley at the Borris-in-Ossory / Mountmellick Municipal District Meeting.
Senior engineer Paul McLoughlin noted that the bridge was originally built by the Barrow drainage board and it currently carries a private road over the River Barrow.
“The bridge is showing signs of deterioration and it would be appropriate for structural assessment to be commissioned for the bridge to determine both likely future interventions and works required,” Mr McLoughlin said.
Liability
“It is not currently clear as to where liability for this structure lies,” he said.
However, Cllr McDonald said he did not accept the information in the reply.
He said the Barrow drainage board was abolished in recent years and “Laois County Council took over responsibility”.
“The bridge has deteriorated,” he said.
He added that there is a local run creamery nearby.
“The bridge is going to finish up in the river,” he warned.
If repairs aren’t done now, Cllr McDonald said, “to replace the bridge will cost a fortune”.
Having served on the Barrow drainage board, Cllr David Goodwin said he believed ownership of the bridge had previously been established and would be on public record.
Agenda
Cllr John King said they should have the issue on the agenda for their next meeting.
He added that surveys had been done in the past but they “don’t get the job done”.
While the council has taken responsibility for the work of the drainage boards, Cllr Brendan Phelan said no funding has been provided.
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