An urgent application has been submitted to An Bord Pleanála by Sligo County Council to carry out critical repair work on Markievicz Bridge, Sligo’s oldest bridge, which dates back to 1670. The council fears that without immediate intervention, the historic structure could be at risk of structural collapse.
The council’s application highlights the need to reverse existing damage and prevent further deterioration of the protected structure. The proposed repairs are focused on addressing “scour damage,” which is the erosion of soil around the bridge’s piers and abutments caused by water flow. This type of damage poses a significant threat to the bridge’s foundation and stability.
The application, with a decision expected by February 16, includes several key measures:
- Repairing scour damage to the bridge’s piers and abutments.
- Repairing scour damage to the riverbed.
- Cleaning and removing vegetation from the structure.
- Repointing the masonry.
A Natura Impact Statement has also been prepared as part of the application, ensuring the proposed work will not negatively impact the surrounding natural environment.
