Leenane bridge damage to be assessed

The remnants of the bridge over the river Lahill in Leenane, Co Galway which was destroyed by flood waters yesterday

The remnants of the bridge over the river Lahill in Leenane, Co Galway which was destroyed by flood waters yesterday. Photo: Joe O'Shaughnessy

Co Galway officials will today begin to draw up plans after century-old bridge was washed away by a flash flood in Connemara.

Stone arches supporting the bridge in the village of Leenane were swept away at around 5pm yesterday after heavy rain.

Officials from the National Roads Authority and Galway County Council will have to assess the full extent of the damage caused by torrential rain that swelled the River Lahill.

Residents described hearing a loud crack, as one arch broke away initially and was followed by a second arch.

READ MORE

An inflatable craft owned by Killary Cruises was deployed to take people across the river to vehicles yesterday evening, saving on the only alternative - a round trip by road of up to 120 kilometres (80 miles).

Mayo County Council erected warning notices on routes from the northern shores of Killary fjord to Leenane, and Galway County Council is advising drivers to take alternative routes.

There are concerns the bridge collapse may have a serious impact on tourism.