New name mooted for athlone bypass bridge

Athlone's N6 bypass bridge may soon have a new name following a proposal from a local councillor.

The bridge is set to be renamed the 'Cumann Na mBan Bridge'.

This change was proposed last October by Fianna Fail councillor Frankie Keena, who is the current Mayor of Athlone.

At a meeting of the Athlone Municipal District, Cllr Keena requested the change 'on the 100th Anniversary of the founding of Cumann Na mBan and in recognition of those women who served and played a vital role in securing the independence of the State.'

At present, the bridge is officially known as the ‘New Shannon Bridge’ though most locals refer to it informally as simply 'the bypass bridge'.

Cumann Na mBan (the Irishwomen’s council) was founded in 1914 with the aim of “advancing the cause of Irish liberty.”

Westmeath County Council is currently seeking opinions from the public on the ‘Cumann na mBan Bridge’ name.

Anyone who wishes to submit their views for consideration should lodge their submission to the Transportation Section, County Buildings, Mullingar, not later than 4pm on Friday, March 13.