Permission sought for repairs to Sligo’s oldest bridge with fears it may collapse

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

An application has been lodged with An Bord Pleanala by Sligo County Council seeking to carry out urgent repairs to one of the county’s oldest bridges, Markievicz Bridge, Bridge St, Sligo, which dates back to 1670.

Outlining their reasons for applying for permission for the works to be carried out, the local authority stated, “The proposed works are required to reverse existing damage and prevent further deterioration which will eventually lead to the structural collapse of this listed protected structure.”

The application, which will be decided upon by February 16, seeks permission to repair scour damage to the existing piers and abutments. It also seeks permission to repair scour damage to the riverbed and in the curtilage of the structure. Permission is also sought for the cleaning and removing of vegetation and repointing of masonry of structure.

Scouring is defined as the lowering or loss of top bed soil (erosion) around the bridge piers, abutments and spurs due to the water flow currents. Bridge stability is always under threat from scouring and if untreated can eventually lead to foundation failure.

A natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of the proposed development.