Transformation of historical bridge underway in Tullamore

Tullamore’s road network is getting a major facelift as work continues on the long-awaited transformation of Bury/Whitehall Bridge.

The project, led by Tower Civil Engineering on behalf of Offaly County Council, aims to improve traffic flow, safety, and pedestrian access in one of the town’s busiest areas.

A section of Convent Road, from the Store Street crossing, is currently closed to traffic. Diversions are in place via Store Street, Harbour Street and Henry Street, and will remain for the duration of the works.

The upgrade will see a series of key improvements, including:

• New kerbing and footpaths

• Narrowing of the carriageway on Bury Bridge to allow one-way traffic

• Junction tightening at St Brigid’s Place and Convent Road

• Three controlled pedestrian crossings on Daingean Road and Convent Road

• An uncontrolled crossing at the junction of Bury Bridge and Daingean Road

• New signage and road markings to reflect the one-way system

Footpaths outside the Sacred Heart School will also close during the October break to facilitate upgrades.

Senior Executive Engineer Joe Dooley said work will move ''speedily along there,'' as crews continue to make steady progress.

Cathaoirleach Councillor Declan Harvey said, ''I thought Whitehall bridge would be open to pedestrians?''

Responding Joe Dooley said, ''I made every effort with the contractors to insist it would be left open for pedestrians but they (Tower Civils) have prepared their traffic management and pedestrian plan and are closing it for health and safety reasons. The route to the schools is not that much longer. It was hard to argue with it, but I did my best. It will be three weeks I have spoken to the Sacred Heart School and Tullamore College about it. We will get it open as soon as possible.''

Meanwhile, at Cox’s Bridge, works are nearing completion with new footpaths almost finished at the junction with O’Molloy Street and Kilbride. A pedestrian crossing is also being installed at Fox’s Shop to improve safety for residents and school-goers.

READ NEXT: Tullamore footpaths covered in orange, blue and white numbers

Phase Two of the project is expected to begin after the October Bank Holiday weekend at the junction of Arden Road and Clara Road. ''We are currently liaising between property owners and businesses,'' said Mr Dooley.

Once complete, the Bury/Whitehall Bridge project is set to significantly enhance access and safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike — marking another major step forward in the ongoing improvement of Tullamore’s transport infrastructure.