Protecting pearls, preserving play – Approval for Galway footbridge project comes with much to consider
Freshwater Pearl Mussels (FPM) and a nearby playground are in the top considerations as council moves forward with Oughterard footbridge.
Planning permissions were lodged to An Coimisiún Pleanála on July 4, 2025, to develop a footbridge over the Owenriff River. The development is proposed to provide a link for cyclists and pedestrians between the N59 Clifden Road (main street) and Carrowmanagh.
One resident who lives adjacent to the proposed site said the project is one of the “best things they can do” to alleviate the dangers of overcrowding on the current bridge.
“This bridge is going to be perfect because there are so many people who have to use [it].”
Reflected in the plans is a 48m long combined bridge built approximately 150m downstream to the existing N59 road bridge, built more than 200 years ago. That bridge poses a dangerous threat to pedestrians due to its high traffic volume, narrow width, and lack of footpaths, Senior Executive Engineer, Sarah Duffy said.
“Children sharing spaces with cars is just not ideal.”
Taken into consideration in the environmental report was a unique indication of the Owenriff River’s health – Freshwater Pearl Mussels.
It states that the Owenriff river is one of the most densely populated rivers in the world with these hard-shelled creatures. In 2009, it was estimated that there were over one million mussels in the river and therefore it is “absolutely essential that complete protection to the river water and riverbed is provided”.
Ms Duffy said: “If you have pearl mussels in your river, your river is very healthy.”
Ireland makes up 46pc of the FPM population in Europe and to preserve their habitat within this development, the project will take measures like minimised shading, vibration, and lighting, and no instream works.
The habitats of other animals like bats, otters, and badgers in the surrounding area are also being considered.
While a primary focus for the application is the significant habitat impact the development will have, councillors called into question the recreational spaces around the area the plans may affect. Specifically, a playground located close to the site.
Councillor Séamus Walsh urges planners to use “common sense” with the application saying, “it would be a shame to ruin such a beautiful project by taking away a playground.”
A section of the proposed development site also includes a part of Carrowmanagh Park however, the plan intends to keep 24X26m2 preserved for a play area within the park.
Residents are hopeful that this new development will be a safe addition to Oughterard.