Northern Ireland

Helen’s Bay bridge to receive facelift

Clandeboye Way Bridge At Helen\'S Bay
Clandeboye Way Bridge At Helen\'S Bay Clandeboye Way Bridge At Helen\'S Bay

An historic bridge in Helen’s Bay that has fallen into disrepair is to be be given a facelift.

Translink have confirmed that they will be carrying out repair works on the railway bridge over Clandeboye Way at Helen’s Bay railway station.

The bridge, considered to be of historical and architectural interest, is known for its crest featuring the coat of arms of the Marquis of Dufferin & Ava, who  financed the construction in 1865.

In recent times, works have been erected to support the bridge, while the crest has fallen into a state of disrepair. 

Translink have said that repair solutions for the bridge and the crest are currently being studied, alongside the Historic Environment Division at the Stormont Department for Communities.

North Down MLA Andrew Muir welcomed the news but has asked for further clarity on Translink’s plans. He said:  “This bridge is an important part of the infrastructure that sustains the Belfast to Bangor railway line, and is also a popular piece of architecture of historic interest for local residents.  It is a real shame that the historic crest has been allowed to deteriorate to the state it is in today.

“I welcome that Translink are studying repair works for the bridge and the crest, but there are still a number of questions to be answered.  We do not know whether these repair works will lead to a permanent fix for the bridge, whether they will replace the existing works, or any proposed timescales.  Furthermore, we don’t know whether the crest will be able to be restored to something close to its original state”.

“I will continue to seek answers to these questions. I look forward to continuing to work with Translink on this issue, and to be pushing for a timely and welcome solution for residents”.

michael.kenwood@reachplc.com

07817949859

Caption (by Michael Kenwood):

Clandeboye Way bridge at Helen’s Bay

Pic from David Morrow, PA for Andrew Muir MLA

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