No need to worry — Kilbeggan Bridge, Tullamore will easily handle two-way truck traffic

Two trucks, two buses, or two cars will all pass each other comfortably on the newly upgraded Kilbeggan Bridge in Tullamore — that was the clear assurance from Offaly County Council’s Senior Executive Engineer, Joe Dooley, at this month’s Municipal District meeting.

Mr Dooley told councillors that the bridge has a 6.5-metre road width which is identical to other roads throughout Tullamore — and is fully compliant with the national Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS).

Concerns had been raised by councillors following a wave of public queries about whether the bridge could safely accommodate two trucks passing each other. Mr Dooley addressed those fears head-on.

“Two standard, road-legal trucks will pass each other with ease on this bridge,” he said. “The only scenario where two trucks might struggle is if they were both monster American-style trucks'', he said.

He further noted that the bridge exceeds the Irish minimum standard of 5.5 metres for a two-way carriageway, adding that 6.5 metres is not just sufficient — it's generous.

In terms of traffic movement, he acknowledged that a large truck turning from Convent View may need to cross the central white line due to the 6.4-metre kerb radius, but this is fully in line with modern urban road design.

This is intentional. It slows traffic and improves safety, which is exactly the aim of the project he said. “I stood on the bridge for half an hour observing — and traffic is clearly slowing down. It's doing exactly what it was designed to do.”

Mr Dooley also praised Tower Civils for their high-quality work. He confirmed that the pedestrian crossing at Convent Road is now complete, and work is progressing on the Convent View crossing. Belisha beacons will be installed at the Kilbeggan Bridge crossing next week, with illuminated columns enhancing visibility and safety.

The final phase which is resurfacing will begin the week of May 19. This will involve milling the top 100 millimetres of the existing road surface, with most of the work taking place in the evenings (6pm–11pm) under a temporary one-way system.

Councillors praised the works and urged the public to be patient. Councillor Neil Feighery noted the wider footpaths were designed to encourage safe pedestrian use. “Keep up the good work,” he said.

Councillor Declan Harvey added: “It’s a great job. The boys are working hard. People just need to wait until it’s finished.”

Councillor Sean O’Brien pointed out there are traffic alternatives, including two by-passes: “If people are that worried about large trucks, we’ve got plenty of options,” he added.

And Councillor Aoife Masterson said that while she wasn’t part of the original planning, she believes the design logic — slowing traffic and enhancing safety is clear.

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