Kildare County Council queried over condition of well-known bridge
The structure is located in Newbridge
A local councillor has queried Kildare County Council (KCC) over the condition of a well-known bridge.
Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender asked KCC to provide an update on the condition of St Conleth's Bridge in Newbridge while in attendance at the latest Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, which took place on Wednesday, April 15 last.
As part of his question he said that he wanted KCC to include 'whether [or not] a recent inspection or assessment of the bridge surface and accessibility has been carried out', as well the provision of 'a timeline for all repair, maintenance or safety works under consideration'.
In response to Cllr Pender's query, KCC said via the report it presented at the meeting: "Assessments of the boardwalk at St Conleth’s Bridge were completed in 2021 and again in 2025, identifying works required to the boardwalk structure and surface.
"A consultant was appointed in January 2026 to progress the detailed design."
KCC continued: "Additional investigative surveys were identified and commissioned to inform the design, with the topographical survey completed in February / March 2026.
"Ecological assessment and Appropriate Assessment screening, together with a boat‐based inspection of the structure, are scheduled.
"The proposed remediation works include structural repairs, full replacement of the boardwalk, and localised works to the approach paths."
KCC concluded by asserting that detailed design 'will progress following completion of the required surveys'.
Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph
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