Calls for redevelopment of Leitrim bridge to be prioritised in early 2025

Lennox Bridge, a narrow crossing over the River Drowes connecting Kinlough to Budnoran has long been a point of contention.

Traffic approaching the bridge on the Kinlough side must yield to oncoming traffic but there have been numerous instances of drivers failing to adhere to the right of way.

Cllr Justin Warnock, a longstanding advocate for the redevelopment of the bridge, raised the issue at a recent meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District.

He urged that Lennox Bridge be made a priority for early 2025.

He also called for a meeting with the incoming Minister for Transport, requesting that a delegation of members from Manorhamilton MD along with members of the executive seek funding for all necessary works on the bridge and the addition of a cycleway/walkway linking Kinlough to Bundoran.

“This is something that’s been ongoing for the past nine or 10 years. We got a bit of movement when we got money for drawings, but unfortunately Eamon Ryan who I thought would be on board, didn’t deliver. 

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Cllr Eddie Mitchell proposed a motion seeking a review of the road approaching Glenfarne Village from Manorhamilton due to repeated accidents.

“Whoever the new Minister is, I’ll be asking for a delegation from here. There’s a good possibility that three out of the four TDs could be in Government, so we should have an open door.

“It’s something that needs to be done. It’s hindering the development of Kinlough but also Leitrim,” he added.

Cllr Warnock stressed the need for a comprehensive approach, highlighting that it is not just the bridge itself but also the adjoining road that needs improvements.

Cllr James Gilmartin echoed sentiments saying, “It’s not just the bridge, if you developed a cycleway and blueway, it’s a short distance from Kinlough to Bundoran it would be a huge benefit to the area and Kinlough.”The motion received unanimous support from all members.

“It’s something we need to focus on during this term and I would absolutely support the idea of a delegation going to meet the Minister,” Cllr Pádraig Fallon said.

“We have to try to make every effort as early as possible in the new year,” concluded Cllr Warnock.

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