Trim pedestrian bridge project to cost in region of €900,000

The new pedestrian bridge project in Trim to replace the failed timber one linking Trim Castle with the Porchfields will come at a total cost of approximately €900,000.

This includes design, survey and consultancy costs, the new steel bridge itself, enabling works, footpaths, seating and landscaping.

The 30ft steel bridge was delivered and installed last Friday, 18th September and is due to open on 23rd October, in time for the Púca festival.

Meath County Council welcomed the significant progress on the delivery of the new pedestrian bridge linking Trim Castle and the Porchfields, saying that it is "an important piece of infrastructure that will enhance connectivity and accessibility in the town for residents and visitors alike".

Detailing the cost of the project, the council outlined that following the closure of the previous timber bridge on safety grounds in 2022, enabling works, including the deconstruction and removal of the structure, were undertaken at a cost of approximately €10,000.

This work preceded the installation of a temporary Bailey Bridge by the Irish Defence Forces in September 2022, which was provided at no cost to the Council.

The Council commenced the procurement of design consultants in early 2023 for the overall replacement bridge scheme. Consultancy, survey and design costs are projected to be approximately €210,000, inclusive of VAT.

The new 30-metre steel truss bridge is projected to cost approximately €700,000, inclusive of VAT. This figure includes associated footpath improvements and new seating areas on both the castle and Porchfields sides of the river. Overall project costs are projected at approximately €900,000 inclusive of VAT.

"The new bridge will provide a modern, durable and accessible crossing of the River Boyne, ensuring that local people and visitors can continue to move easily between two of Trim's most important amenities," a council spokesperson said.

" The project will strengthen connections between the historic town centre, Trim Castle, the Porchfields and the wider riverside area, enhancing both the experience of tourists and visitors and the quality of life for locals."

The Council also thanked Meath County Council thanked residents, businesses and visitors for their patience and cooperation throughout the various phases of the works.

"While construction projects of this nature can cause temporary disruption, the long-term benefits of this investment will serve the people of Trim and those who visit the town for many years to come," the spokesperson said.

The 30m steel truss bridge was fabricated in Dungarvan, Co Waterford and transported to Kilmallock in Limerick where it was primed and painted before being taken to Trim last week for installation.