Timeline for Shakey Bridge reopening unknown

The timeline for the reopening of the refurbished Shakey Bridge is unknown, as some works still need to be completed.

Cork City Council has said they are liaising with the contractor L&M Keating Ltd on getting the outstanding work finished.

The first section of the Shakey Bridge lift took place in March and the reopening had initially been touted for Easter time.

Extensive corrosion and damage to the 50.9 m heritage structure, also known as Daly’s Bridge, were addressed by restoration and repair works at an estimated cost of €1.7 million. However, other work remains unfinished.

The bridge, which joins Sunday's Well on the northside to Fitzgerald's Park in the Mardyke area on the south, is unique in Ireland as the only surviving pedestrian suspension bridge of its type.

Councillor Tony Fitzgerald said he had received reassurances that the Council are working to ensure the bridge will be completed to the highest possible standard as soon as possible.

He added that it’s an important connector between the north and south sides of the city.

“There’s two issues really. It’s a local amenity for the residents of Sunday's Well, Shanakiel to access Fitzgerald’s Park, and then there’s the tourism trail in terms of the museum, Fitzgerald’s Park, and the City Gaol.

“It’s important to get it open as quickly as possible,” he said.

A spokesperson for Cork City Council said: “The refurbishment work on Daly’s Bridge was commenced in August 2019 and is now significantly advanced.

“Some works still need to be completed on the access ramps and railings, the public lighting on the ramps and bridge, landscaping and general tidying up of the structure and area.

“Cork City Council is continuing to liaise with the contractor in relation to completing the outstanding work, following which it will be reopened for public use.”