Arches blocked in landmark Laois bridge

THREE of the six arches in scenic Castletown Bridge are completely blocked by silt and urgently need to be cleared.

Cllr Conor Bergin highlighted the issue at a council meeting, as he asked for cleaning works to be carried out on the much-photographed bridge and river in Castletown village.

He pointed out that he and other councillors received an email from the Castletown Tidy Towns committee, seeking cleaning works because three of the six arches in the bridge are “completely blocked”.

Cllr Bergin said the project would complement the great work carried out by Castletown Tidy Towns and enhance an important amenity in the area. The proposal was seconded by Cllr James Kelly.

A council official replied that an application is currently being prepared for cleaning works on the weir, river and bridge, which will be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála.

The application will be submitted during the first quarter of 2026, the official told the December meeting of Borris-in-Ossory/Mountmellick Municipal District (MD).

Cllr Bergin remarked: “When I hear An Coimisiún Pleanála I get scared, because I never hear anything good from them but I think they are speeding up now, so I hope this work will be done soon.” 

He added that the Tidy Towns group in the picturesque village has done great work on the riverside walk, which has greatly enhanced the area.

The historic limestone bridge over the River Nore in Castletown dates from around 1750 and is noted for its architectural heritage, ornamental lanterns and beautiful location near the old mill and weir.

Cllr Ollie Clooney recalled that there was a similar problem regarding blockage of the river in Durrow many years ago, when Fr Jackie Robinson was there.

Cllr Clooney said: “We got trailers and JCBs and cleared it all out and we thought we would go to jail, but Fr Jackie said he would endorse it and nothing happened.” 

The Durrow councillor said there should be “a cull of these committees” that dictate what happens locally, which would save money and allow people with local knowledge to carry out essential clearance.

Cllr Clooney said: “I saw Inland Fisheries in the courts prosecuting decent people and farmers for trying to clear rivers and it’s not right.”