NIAH Description – No:14936017 Kinnitty Castle, CASTLETOWN AND GLINSK, OFFALY – Buildings of Ireland
Single-spire wire suspension footbridge, built c.1840, over the River Camcor within the demesne of Kinnitty Castle. Bridge is hung from cast-iron columns. The uprights are anchored to the ground behind with a pair of diagonal wrought-iron rods. Timber deck. Bridge accessed through wrought-iron gate with iron circular framing. Manufacturer’s name ‘T & D Roberts’ on downstream upright.
Appraisal
It is one of only two suspension bridges in Offaly (the other is at Birr Castle demesne) and one of several footbridges with Kinnitty Castle demesne. It is a rare surviving example of a multiple-wire cable suspension bridge. It is significant because of its association with the Mountmellick Foundry. It lends interest the the riverscape. This bridge together with the castle, outbuildings and gate lodges form an interesting group of related structures.
For more detailed information on the Folly, the Bernard Family, Kinnitty Castle and demesne refer to Flights of Fancy – Follies, Families and Demesnes in Offaly by Rachel Mc Kenna, Kinnitty chapter pp 310-329. You will find this book available from your local library or bookshop.
Conservation repairs were carried out in 2021 with Coillte as per Method Statement prepared by Southgate Associates – Report attached. Siteworks were completed by Cunningham Marine and Mackey Plant. Works on site involved repairs to sections of embankment, where stone was washed out over time during flooding. Loose stones were washed down river, returned and reset with lime mortar. Oak from the demesne was prepared and planked by Coilte for bridge decking. Scaffolding was built around the bridge to allow its careful removal off site to Mackey Plant for repairs. Swing gates to either side of the bridge were also brought for repairs. Careful, delicate repairs were assessed, monitored and completed, the bridge painted and returned on site. See Creative Ireland Report outlining the progress of works – Report attached.
Works were funded by Creative Ireland, Department grant (Historic Structures Fund 2021), Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), and Coillte.