Common-sense solution wanted for Glenfin bridge problem

Locals wanted a common-sense solution, not some superstructure. That was the message from Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District chairman, Cllr Patrick McGowan when he heard what might be involved in restoring a rural single-lane bridge to working order.

Speaking at their recent meeting he said while he welcomed the fact an alternative plan was in place for the Ardbatt bridge in Glenfin but it was time to make this happen, he said.

"The first proposal for a complete realignment would take years. It would have to go through An Bord Pleanála and other assessments but most people living and using the bridge would have happy to have it resurfaced. It's mainly local traffic that uses it but it is closed at the moment causing great inconvenience.

Council engineer, Claire McGeever said it was not just a matter of resurfacing at Ardbatt bridge, it needed the removal of the existing deck and its replacement with a new deck.

"That will be subject to funding. It will also depend on the environmental works. That report will determine whether a full assessment is required and will decide how long that project will take," she said.

Cllr McGowan said locals who used Ardbatt bridge were not going to wait for two or three years for people to sit around and discuss what options they had.

"People are entitled to have this road open. It's not rocket science. They would be more than happy with a replacement decking and not a superstructure that is going to cost maybe half a million. The volume of traffic would not justify that never mind the environmental challenges that this would involve. It would probably end up going to An Bord Pleanála. Simply put the deck back on and get on with it We just need a wee bit of common sense here," he said.