Alliance say future of Quoile Bridge may be in question
Alliance representatives Patrick Brown MLA and Cllr Cadogan Enright have expressed their concern regarding the future of the Quoile bridge following its recent closure.
Cracks in the bridge appeared last week forcing the Department for Infrastructure to close the road to traffic.
It has since been reopened by DFI, but with a four-way traffic system to allow only one stream of traffic over the bridge.
DFI announced that the reason for the damage was most likely due to a vehicle hitting the bridge and therefore any risk of damage has been minimised until preparations for repairs are put in place.
In the meantime, vegetation has been removed around the bridge’s pillars and DFI are undertaking structural assessments to prepare for repairs.
Patrick Brown MLA said: “The repairs at the Quoile bridge will likely continue for a significant period before the bridge is fully restored.
“Whilst it appears that the bridge was most likely damaged by vehicle, I do not doubt that the build-up of toxic sludge and debris in the Quoile River also put significant pressure on the bridge.
“Alliance have been campaigning for some time to make this bridge safer for drivers due to the number of accidents and to dredge and clean up our river. I think now more than ever it is very clear we need movement on both of these issues.”
Cllr Cadogan Enright added: “The damage of the Quoile bridge is very severe and I would remind drivers to exercise particular caution when driving in this area.
“This road is an important route for commuters into Downpatrick and it will damage our town centre further as shoppers, workers and residents are forced to take diversions.
