NEW SHANNON BRIDGE.

Shannon News, 23 April 1926, Page 3

NEW SHANNON BRIDGE.

method of approach criticised Three alternative routes of approach to the new Shannon bridge site were suggested, and that finally chosen runs from the Site to the old Shanroad at a point where the Public Works built a bridge over the channel. Gr. Parker expressed his dissatisfaction with the route and said some steps should be taken to have t-lie approach altered. The chairman (Gr. Monk): For goodness’ sake don’t let us re-open this matter. We have got this far with it. Gr. Banner: That is the most dangerous crossing the the Borough of Shannon and the road there is subject to flood.

The Chairman: All that- was taken into consideration. -Three routes were put forward, and it was left to the Chief Engineer (Mr Furke-rt) io come to a conclusion. Gr. -Barber said there was an area of 1000 acres there, the water from which rushed down to a lower level and caused a local flood which affected the; road. The Engineer: That was pointed cut and also that it was a. dangerous crossing, and that there was a Lottor crossing further north. Cr. Barber said he did not think the Chief .Engineer had any local knowledge. The Chairman: Three routes were considered—one down Williams’ boundary, one came out at the crossing near the hotel, and there'was one down the present road, across live bridge and out- that way. Cr. Barber: M,r Furkert, gave me a .very unsatisfactory reply when I asked whether they were going to bank the Mangaore against flooding, lie said, “You-have your remedy .whe n it occurs.” ' There is nothing more certain than that it will flood when it gets the full flow of the Mangahao turbine water in the winter. The chairman said he did not know what' the Shannon people thought about it. He believed they were- pressing for the old route. Cr. Barber: That- is so. They are afraid that if Williams’ route is chosen it will deprive Shannon of the through traffic.

The discussion ended without any action being taken, the matter being regarded as settled, though Cr. Barber expressed his strong car. Mion that a grave mistake was being made.