Two options for the construction of a new bridge crossing the Shannon have been put before the communities of Killaloe-Ballina in a new joint draft development plan for the two towns.
The construction of a new bridge south of the existing 18th- century, 13-arch bridge which connects Killaloe and Ballina is seen as vital in overcoming the towns' chronic traffic problems and offering a sustainable new gateway to the west.
Currently the bridge, which was built to accommodate the horse and cart and is only 4.8 metres wide in places, is the main crossing point on the Shannon between the Co Galway town of Portumna and Limerick city.
The two towns experience daily tailbacks which can last up to 40 minutes. Yesterday, the constant pressure on the bridge resulted in Tipperary NR Co Council appointing a structural engineer to examine deterioration in part of the bridge.
As a result of the deterioration, Clare county engineer Mr Tom Carey announced that the two councils were going to put a speed limit of 10 m.p.h. on the bridge.
Both new bridge options in the plan anticipate a new road going east of Killaloe, before crossing the Shannon south of the two towns. Option one is the preferred option utilising existing transport infrastructure while avoiding as much existing development as possible.
Mr Carey said yesterday the development of a new bridge has to happen.
"A new bridge is hugely important from a Ballina and Killaloe viewpoint, but it has a regional and national context as well."
He ruled out the option of widening the existing bridge due its historical and cultural importance. "Crucially, a new bridge will require a huge amount of funding and identifying a funding mechanism is going to be an issue."
The drawing up of a draft development plan for the area was initiated last year by the Killaloe-Ballina Action Group.
Action Group spokesman Mr Oliver Kierse said: "There is a complete consensus over the need for the new bridge and as an absolute minimum, the councils must identify a route for the road."
In the shorter-term, however, the draft plan - drawn up in conjunction with UCD's regional and urban planning department - puts forward some options for traffic management of the area.
A preferred option is to restrict the movement of heavy goods vehicles on the bridge to off-peak times.
