Anger over delayed public access to Bandon bridge

BY BRIAN MOORE

THE new footbridge spanning the Bandon river will be in place this Friday – but it won’t be open to the public until early next year.

The new bridge at McSwiney Quay replaces its metal predecessor which was erected in 1908, having been constructed in a foundry in Belfast. 

It was removed as part of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme.

Business owners, while welcoming the installation of the new bridge, are unhappy that this popular access between McSwiney Quay and Mill Place, across the river, will not be open until next year.

‘The people of Bandon have been very tolerant with the road closures during the construction works,’ Cllr Rachel McCarthy said. ‘We have to try and minimise the number of days that McSwiney Quay is closed. We are getting into a very busy time for businesses and residents and we have to ensure that all works are carried out as quickly as possible.’

Members of the Bandon Historical Society managed to salvage parts of the old metal footbridge and plans are in place to display it at the West Cork Heritage Centre, which is based at the former Christchurch building on North Main Street.