Repair of Ballina bridge

The existing bridge between Ballina and Killaloe will have to be closed for repair work, though this will not happen until after the new crossing opens next year, a meeting of Nenagh Municipal District was told.

Local councillor Phyll Bugler wanted Tipperary County Council to repair a break on the bridge, which she understood would require a specialist sealant and a specialist company to carry out the work. A reply to her notice of motion stated the break is in a section of the bridge that was designed to open to allow for passage of large boats, but which has not been open for many decades. The road surface has “failed” at this location and the council is continuing to monitor it with a view to closing the bridge for repair work after the new Shannon crossing opens.

Cllr Bugler said cars are being damaged on the bridge.

District Engineer Barry Murphy said an interim repair was carried out in 2019. The council could not contemplate closing the bridge now “unless an absolute emergency”. It would tackle the problem once the new bridge opens, he said.