More ecologists recruited in Laois to check impact of Slieve Bloom  bridge fix

The impact on fish has been assessed and now more ecology experts have to be hired to complete another environment survey before a deteriorating bridge can be fixed in the Slieve Blooms.

Last May Laois County Council told councillors that a survey was needed to find out what impact work on the Rearyvalley Bridge would have on fish. This was due to be finished in June 2023.

In the latest update, councillors have been told a comprehensive environmental impact assessment of any work is needed.

Edmond Kenny, District Engineer, update councillors at a meeting in March.

“Repairs to the structure and river channel are proposed. Due to the extent of the works proposed and the sensitivities of the river an application to An Bord Pleanala is required. 

“Ecologists have been engaged to prepare a Natura Impact Statement to assess the likely impacts the proposed project will have on the River Barrow Special Area of Conservation. It is expected that an application to An Bord Pleanala will be lodged for the scheme in the summer of 2023,” he said.

The council has been alerted to bridge risks on several occasions by Cllr Seamus McDonald. He has warned that the bridge condition is 'deteriorating rapidly'. He has said local dairy farmers are concerned about the situation because of the need for trucks to use the bridge to collect milk.

An Bord Pleanála says local authorities are required to make an application to An Bord Pleanála for any proposed development in their functional area, or on the foreshore, where an appropriate assessment under the Habitats Directive is required.

Young drivers must “show respect” to end “mayhem” in Laois Offaly Slieve Blooms

The issue was raised at the recent Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District meeting in County Hall, Portlaoise.