Collapsed bridge to partially re-open tomorrow

The West Cavan bridge which collapsed on July 31 is due to re-open to traffic tomorrow (August 27) according to Cavan County Council.

In an update to the Celt, a council spokesperson stated that the road will re-open at 6pm tomorrow operating under a one-way shuttle system controlled by traffic lights.

Full completion of the Mullaghboy Masonry Arch bridge, located on the L-1012-0 road between Gowlan and Glangevlin near Blacklion, is expected on Wednesday, September 10.

The bridge collapsed on July 21, leaving locals shocked in the area. Since then, some have had to drive a 12 km diversion route to avoid the bridge. The spokesperson stated the damage occurred due to "extreme rainfall event that occurred the previous day".

"The Municipal District responded promptly by closing the road and implementing appropriate diversion routes to ensure public safety," they stated.

"Following a detailed assessment, the Road Design Office deemed that the original structure could not be salvaged and would need full replacement," the spokesperson revealed.

The council said they "prioritised" these works to "ensure as little disruption to the public as possible" by procuring a suitable bridge replacement design to meet the required "increased capacity criteria."

Specialist bridge contractor McCabe Group Construction commenced the replacement works on August 1.

"Box culverts were installed on August 13 which offer increased hydraulic capacity compared to existing bridge structure and ancillary works are currently ongoing."

"The bridges structural elements including part of the bridge deck had been washed downstream as a result of a severe flooding surge rendering the road impassable."