Clare County Council and Tipperary County Council have confirmed the permanent pedestrianisation of the old Killaloe Ballina Bridge, effective from 6pm on October 17, 2025.

Following the completion of the new Brian Boru Bridge, the historic stone arch bridge will close to all vehicle traffic and serve as a dedicated route for pedestrians and cyclists connecting Killaloe and Ballina.

The decision follows an extensive Section 38 consultation and a trial period that began shortly after the opening of the new bridge. Traffic assessments conducted before and during the trial indicated that closing the bridge to vehicles did not negatively affect traffic flow in either town. The bridge was found to provide a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists and has proven suitable for local events and tourism activities.

Public feedback during the consultation and trial showed strong support for pedestrianisation, with residents citing increased safety for children, older people, and wheelchair users, alongside improved community amenity.

-- Advertisement --

Submissions also highlighted reduced congestion, better traffic flow on the new bridge, and environmental benefits, including lower noise and air pollution. Councils have acknowledged concerns regarding economic impact, accessibility, and emergency service access but confirmed that emergency services do not expect significant operational effects.

The closures align with national transport policies, including the National Sustainable Mobility Policy, NIFTI, and the Road Safety Strategy. This pedestrianisation initiative was first outlined in the Killaloe-Ballina Town Enhancement and Mobility Plan, published in January 2022, and has been informed by prior public information sessions and consultations.

Clare County Council Acting Director of Service for Transportation Cyril Feeney stated: "The commingling of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles on the bridge has been a cause for concern for many years. The proposal to remove vehicular traffic is not new. It was considered as an option since the early 2000s but was not feasible without an alternative route for vehicular traffic. That alternative route has now been successfully provided by the opening of the new Brian Boru Bridge."

Tipperary County Council Director of Services for Roads and Transportation Liam Brett added: "We have heard clearly the wishes and concerns of all stakeholders. We acknowledge the opening of the €90 million bypass & bridge brings change as well as potential to the community and business environment. Both councils recognise this and are committed to working with local businesses to promote Killaloe-Ballina as a place for businesses, both existing and future, to develop and grow stronger. Pedestrianisation of the existing bridge can become a cornerstone of the tourist offering for Killaloe and Ballina."