Donnolly Civil Engineering has commenced construction of the new Horseshoe Active Travel Bridge in Monaghan Town.

The bridge will run adjacent to the existing vehicle bridge on Park Road, crossing the Ulster Canal, and will form part of the Ulster Canal Greenway network.

The project, which has a total value of €1,275,000, involves the construction of a 29-metre-long single-span precast beam and slab bridge on piled foundations. The 3.0-metre-wide shared pedestrian and cycle route will connect existing footpaths to the Greenway, with features including tactile paving, flush kerbs and raised crossings to support accessibility for all users.

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Works include the installation of a signalised traffic shuttle system for vehicles over the existing bridge and from the Mullaghmatt Road junction with Park Road, as well as new raised pedestrian crossings with demand-activated push buttons at both ends of the bridge.

The scheme will link with existing and planned active travel routes in Monaghan Town, improving safety and access for pedestrians and cyclists. It is funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) through the Active Travel Investment Grants.

The project design, led by AtkinsRéalis since 2021, will continue to be overseen by them through the construction stage. Works are expected to be completed between late 2025 and early 2026.

Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, said: "This scheme advances our ambitious plans for better sustainable transport across Monaghan Town and countywide. It demonstrates our climate action leadership while improving citizens' quality of life through strategic transport planning. This is one of serval active travel schemes and initiatives being rolled out across the county as part of a long-term vision for greener healthier and more connected communities."