Engineeers confirm that cracks showing on Dodder Valley Park bridge are ‘only cosmetic’
By Mary Dennehy
CRACKS appearing on the 52-metre, suspended red bridge in Dodder Valley Park are “only cosmetic”, according to South Dublin County Council.
Officially opened in November 2014, the landmark bridge spans the Dodder and connects Old Bawn and Seskin View to Firhouse.
Engineers contacted to verify safety
Dublin South West TD Sean Crowe (Sinn Féin) raised the issue of cracks on the bridge with the council, after it was highlighted with him by a resident.
Speaking with The Echo, Deputy Crowe said that concerns were raised over the cracks, which are located on the main structure.
“I raised it with the council and they got experts in who are saying there is no problem,” Deputy Crowe said.
“They have confirmed that they have checked the cracks and they are okay.”
In a comment to The Echo, a spokesperson for South Dublin County Council said: “I can confirm that the red bridge in Dodder Valley Park has been examined by engineers who have confirmed that the cracks are cosmetic only.
“The bridge contractors have been contacted to remedy same, as it remains under warranty.”
In 2015, the bridge was the subject of another investigation, after residents reported a high-pitched sound coming from the structure – which has led to it being known locally as the ‘whistling’ bridge.
The sound, which was heard during high winds, was examined by consultant engineers, who were asked by South Dublin County Council to examine the bridge, discover the cause of the noise and determine a solution.
As well as linking existing communities by providing a new, shorter and more direct route, the bridge forms part of a wider network of new cycle-ways throughout the Dublin region.
TAGS Tallaght
