Design sought for plaza and floating walkway in Shannonbridge

Plans for a new plaza and floating walkway in Shannonbridge have taken a major step forward.

Offaly County Council is now seeking to appoint consultants to design the project, which hasthe working title of 'Shannonbridge Plaza and Shannon Callows Walkway'.

The key focus for the consultants will be “the planning and design of a ‘plaza’ / public amenity area off the Main Street, which will lead down to the Shannon Callows and the planned Dublin–Galway Greenway, together with the planning and design of a floating walkway over the Callows.”

The design must take into account the local biodiversity and environment, as the Callows is designated a Special Area of Conservation.

The council said: “One of the most important intended outcomes of this project is to raise awareness of the importance of the Callows”.

While it notes that for many, the Callows “simply appears as a grassland area which floods during the winter months and it suitable for grazing when the water levels recede,” the area, which covers 59 square kilometres, is the “unsung star of our natural heritage”.

“It has one of the largest concentrations of breeding waders in these islands with Lapwing, Redshank, Curlew, Sandpiper and Godwit living there. Many species of migrant wild birds are also frequent visitors while otters, fox and ferret mink are common residents.”

It was noted that when visitors arrive at Shannonbridge marina, they rarely venture further into the village or surrounding area.

“The creation of the plaza space will provide a focal point in the village centre where they can commence their experience, whatever form that may take. The ability to unload their bikes or to set off on foot must be made as convenient as possible, be that close to the plaza or at other identifiable sites in the village.”

The design should also incorporate plans for the extra traffic and parking requirements additional tourists may bring to the town.

“The current situation involves a disorganised combination of on-street parking or parking on either side of the bridge at the waterfront. In the off season, this does not present any significant issue.

In the high season, the availability of suitable parking options in Shannonbridge would increase the prospect of tourists remaining in the village to enjoy the full range of experiences.”