Published: Wednesday, 28th July, 2010 5:15pm

Tang Bridge works granted

The widening and rehabilitation works at Tang Bridge have been given the go-ahead by Westmeath County Council.

Because the bridge is an "important element of the mid to late-19th century civil engineering heritage" in Co. Westmeath and is proposed for listing as a protected structure, the council must ensure that conservation measures are taken during the works.

The bridge which is north of Tang village, and dates back to 1855, will be widened on its eastern side. The eastern parapet wall will be demolished to facilitate the road widening. The new parapet wall will be constructed with similar stone. The adjoining N55 will be realigned for 280m with a footpath on the western side and a verge and hard strip on the eastern side.

There is no lighting planning for the crossing. The Department of the Environment asked that a bat roost survey be carried out, while the council will consult with the OPW about the hydrometric measuring station on the bridge and also plan to remove the ivy. All works will be carried out under the supervision of an architect with specialised conservation experience.

The Part 8 process was approved by Cllr Joe Flanagan and seconded by Cllr Joe Whelan at Monday's county council meeting.

Tang Bridge submissions:

There were three observations/submissions made by locals on the proposed work on the Tang Bridge.

Tang Muintir Community Council Ltd welcomed the proposed new foothpath on the western side heading from the national school towards Ballymahon and hoped that Westmeath County Council would provide lighting. They also wanted the council to address safety issues at Maghera junction.

The County Manager replied that no public lighting was included in the plans but that the footpath would extend as far as Maghera junction. The scheme does not include upgrade works to that junction however.

Evelyn Farrell and James Goulding from Tang, said that bringing the road closer to their existing house would increase the risk of traffic accidents, making the front garden unsafe for children. The road realignment would make it "difficult and dangerous" to enter/exit their property. They asked that the realignment would not obstruct views from the house by way of barriers or road signs and that if the new footpath encroaches the existing hedge, a reinstatement of hedge and fence should be carried out.

The council replied that the realignment of the N55 would reduce the hazard rate at the bridge and subsequently at the property. The edge of the carriageway has moved a maximum of a meter towards the west. The bridge will be designed for an impact speed of 80km. A 125mm high kerb will also help to ensure that vehicles do not inadvertently leave the carriageway. This verge and footpath will provide a "safe refuge" for vehicles leaving the house. The County Manager said that the view of the road would not be obstructed by signs and that the footpath will extend to the property's fence. If the works require the removal of hedge or fencing, this will be discussed with the landowner prior to the commencement of works.

Finally, Kathleen and Raymond O'Connor from Tang, welcomed the revised proposals. They recommended that the drain pipe north of their property be continued to the river to alleviate flooding problems on site, and asked that the kerb be extended by 30m north of existing gate. They also asked that the council ensure that extra space is not left over for "parking of caravans" as previously occurred in nearby lay-by.

The County Manager said the proposed works do not extend north of their property and do not affect the existing fence. He said that runoff from the road will be taken to a suitable outfall.

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