Cork’s newest bridge, a 63-meter pedestrian and cycle bridge, was lifted into place overnight and now connects Grange/Frankfield with the southern suburbs. The bridge, located approximately midway between junction 6 and junction 7 of the N40 South Ring Road, is part of a kilometer-long cycle pathway project that will allow people to walk or cycle for leisure, work, or to get to school or college from Grange/Frankfield to Tramore Valley Park, Douglas and on into the city center. The new route will provide a public amenity for local residents through the wooded area south of the Grange Road, and the bridge will allow direct access across the N40 dual carriageway to Tramore Valley Park without the need to travel by car.
The project began construction in July 2022, with the main contractor, Jons Civil Engineering Company Limited, leading the efforts. The bridge, manufactured by Thompson of Carlow, comprises two sections, with the southern bridge section crossing the Lower Harbour Truck Watermain, weighing in at 13 tons, and being 16-meters in length, 5.16-meters in width, and 1-meter in height. The main bridge, which crosses the N40, has a minimum vertical clearance of 5.7 meters and measures 46.6-meters in length, 5.16-meters in width, and 4.65-meters in height, with a weight of approximately 51 tons. It features two light stands and a black handrail on either side and is predominantly supported by a 355-mm truss on either side.
The completion of this project is a step closer to allowing people to enjoy the benefits of walking or cycling in the area, with the new bridge and cycle path providing an important link for local residents to Tramore Valley Park and the wider area. The scenic walk or cycle through the wooded area south of the Grange Road and the increased accessibility will encourage more people to leave their cars at home and opt for more sustainable modes of transport. Overall, the project is an example of the benefits of investing in infrastructure that promotes active travel, brings people together and allows better access to green spaces.
