MOTORISTS LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO DROMANA GATE BRIDGE

A recent incident in which a lorry became stuck while crossing Dromana Gate Bridge near Cappoquin was highlighted at a district council meeting this week.

Calling for further measures at the historic West Waterford site, local councillor John Pratt raised the issue as he claimed existing signage on site is not having an impact.

“The signage isn’t having the effect of stopping the traffic going in under the bridge, only recently again a lorry got caught in between the arches of the bridge,” Cllr Pratt said.

In response, Senior Engineer with

Waterford City and County Council Gabriel Hynes, stated that electronic signs are already in place at the structure.

“There is no reason now that any vehicle should be approaching the structure and if they are, it is pure negligence on their side.

“I don’t believe any additional barriers are warranted there or would be effective there,” Mr Hynes said.

MOTORISTS LIABLE FOR DAMAGES

Mr Hynes also requested that any locals who may have information relating to oversized vehicles approaching the Dromana Bridge or endangering it would come forward with information.

Furthermore, Mr Hynes noted that motorists who cause damage to the structure would be liable for such.

“I would advise people that if damage is caused to the structure, the vehicle owner would be responsible for any works required to remediate the damage caused,” he said.

Cllr Pratt also issued a second query in relation to the Dromana Gate Bridge, noting that one side of the bridge which was previously open is now ‘ boarded up and padlocked’.

The Tallow councillor asked why the previously accessible area has now been closed off to the public.

Mr Hynes stated that the closure was likely to prevent access due to health and safety reasons. He said he would look further into the matter and refer to the council with details on the closure.