By Dan Walsh
Concerns about the future of a popular Wexford Walking Trails route have been alleviated by Coillte’s statement today that “reopening Spike Bridge is a priority.”
Coillte Communications has released the following statement in response to an enquiry from WexfordLocal.com regarding a story published on February 26th:
“Coillte wishes to inform the public and stakeholders that Spike Bridge in Courtown Wood has been temporarily closed due to health and safety concerns.
“The safety of our visitors is our top priority and this action was taken following a recent on site assessment of the bridge. We appreciate that this is a valued local amenity and are currently carrying out works to make the bridge safe and enable us to reopen to the public this weekend.
“In the meantime, we appreciate the patience and understanding of the community as we complete these essential safety measures, and we ask the public to kindly abide by all safety signage on site. We will continue to monitor the bridge and assess any further works that may be required in the future.”
The bridge was marked with a ‘closed’ sign, raising questions about its future, especially among members of the Courtown Heritage Group.
Cllr Joe Sullivan supported the locals and corresponded with Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae TD with responsibility for the Department of Forestry and Coillte management.
Cllr Sullivan told WexfordLocal.com that he is pleased the Spike Bridge has been prioritised. He thanked Coillte for resolving the matter promptly.
The official trail map shows that if the bridge closes, the bridge walk will no longer be connected to the Wexford Walking Trail network in Courtown.
Currently the bridge allows for access to woodland managed by Coillte on the north side of the Owenavorragh river, linking the 1.4km Bridge Walk which is especially popular for active travel and river anglers.
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