The Seamus Rafter Bridge in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, may be demolished as part of an extensive flood relief scheme being developed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Wexford County Council.
The landmark bridge, which spans the River Slaney and was opened in 1991, would be replaced with separate pedestrian and road bridges at “suitable locations” above predicted flood levels as part of the first phase of works aimed at protecting the town from recurring flood damage.
A public consultation has been launched seeking opinions from local residents on the initial phase of the flood relief scheme. The second phase will involve completing additional flood protection measures throughout the town.
The bridge holds significant historical importance as it was named after Seamus Rafter, an Irish Republican Brotherhood commander who took a leadership role during the 1916 Easter Rising. The structure has served as a site for successive Easter Rising commemorations honoring Rafter’s legacy.
According to the OPW, Enniscorthy has experienced consistent extreme flooding events since 1924, causing damage to property, disruption to businesses, and traffic problems. The town suffered particularly severe flooding over Christmas 2021, when one-meter waves caused “devastating damage” to property, businesses, and roads.
The proposed demolition represents a significant change to the town’s landscape but aims to address the long-standing flood risks that have plagued Enniscorthy for nearly a century.