A sandblast from the past

Sean McMahon

A bridge that had fallen into a state of disrepair and was covered with ivy and briars has been totally refurbished with such skill that Cllr Winston Bennett says it's now proving to be a visitor attraction.

Michael Heneghan, senior executive engineer with Cavan County Council, says Coolnacarrick Bridge, located on the outskirts of Crossdoney, past Goulds Timber, probably dates back to the late 1800s.
He said it was decided to bring the bridge structure back to mimic the structure of railway bridges of that era.
Cllr Bennett said the action was also prompted by a lorry clipping the bridge, bringing down three large stones from the eye of the structure. The road was closed and the council immediately set about clearing all overgrowth from the stonework.
“It was stone blasted and all the stonework was expertly restored. It now looks great and is a most impressive structure and now a real landmark,” said Michael.
Mr Heneghan complimented those who completed the stone work, resulting in a natural effect in keeping with its original appearance.
The work was completed about four weeks ago and local people are glad it has been so tastefully restored.
Cllr Bennett complimented the contractor, Declan McCabe, and his team for the superb job they did on this historic structure.