The Ferrymountgarrett Bridge is a six-span structure carrying the R700, linking counties Wexford and Kilkenny, across the River Barrow. The current structure, constructed in 1930, is included on the national Inventory of Architectural Heritage & Record of Protected Structures and is a landmark feature in the area. Increased traffic volumes and sizes over the past 10 to 15 years, since previous strengthening works were carried out, have resulted in the accelerated deterioration of the predominantly reinforced concrete structure.
In July 2025 a suite of detailed inspections, surveys, investigations and material tests were carried out on the Ferrymountgarret Bridge to fully establish the extent of structural wear and damage. This work has informed plans for a timely intervention to avoid load capacity issues or load restrictions, to improve road safety and preserve the heritage of the structure.
The evidenced based restoration of the structure received a funding allocation in the amount of €1.4 million as a specific improvement grant under the 2026 Kilkenny Regional and Local Roads Grants Allocation 2026. Kilkenny County Council tendered the required the works in March 2026 and advertised the required Road Closure in April 2026.
These repairs and strengthening works are essential to maintain the bridge’s load-carrying capacity, to prevent the need for restrictive measures in the short term and to ensure that the bridge remains a safe and reliable crossing for all users well into the future.
The required road closure for these works is for a period of 10 to 12 weeks from June 24th to August 28th, 2026. This is a significant period but fully necessary to carry out the works as quickly as possible. A fully enclosed containment system as shown below is required to prevent contamination of the river. The completion of works such as deck waterproofing, concrete reinforcement, drainage and surfacing will be achieved more quickly under a full closure avoiding prolonged disruption. The road closure now advertised is to ensure that works are done during maximum daylight hours, during school holiday period for schools to minimise disruption and maximise working hours on the project. The successful contractor is currently being appointed, and every effort has been made to maximise the work programme and to shorten the period of construction and closure where at all possible.
Kilkenny County Council, in its role as a local road’s authority, is responsible for identifying and delivering essential maintenance and improvement works across the county’s road network. Each year, a programme of works is undertaken between March and October, when weather and operational conditions are most suitable.
Given the scale and scope of this annual programme, it is not always feasible to consult individually with all communities in advance of each project. The Council fully acknowledges, however, that such works can cause disruption and inconvenience to local residents, and it appreciates the patience and understanding shown.
In the case of the Rower area, the Council recognises that the required diversion routes are extensive. Unfortunately, these arrangements are unavoidable due to the nature of the works. Carrying out the project within a full road closure is necessary to meet environmental obligations and to ensure the works can be completed as efficiently and safely as possible.
Kilkenny County Council remains committed to delivering these essential improvements in a timely manner, while minimising disruption wherever feasible, and thanks the public for their continued cooperation.
