DFI to remove Moylinn footbridge

The Department for Infrastructure has announced it will ewmove the Moylinn footbridge over the weekend of Thursday 16 to Monday 20 March 2023.

This is a key piece of infrastrutcure linking schools and the community to the city park, South Lakes leisure centre and the greater Craigavon, Portadown and Lurgan areas.

DFI has said it is “aware of the bridge’s importance to the local community which forms part of the National Cycling Network and provides an essential link to the nearby leisure centre, Craigavon City Park and the Rushmere Shopping Centre. With this in mind the Department is taking forward a scheme to provide an alternative wheeling / walking / cycling link.  This scheme recently commenced on site, with the aim of the alternative link being completed before the bridge is removed. The alternative route will be sign posted in both directions for the assistance of users”

While DFI have plans for alternative routes and signposting - there is neither a plan or budget in place to replace the bridge.

“The development of a permanent solution is underway with the timing of construction being subject to budget availability and the completion of statutory processes.”

Cllr Catherine Nelson (SF) posted on Facebook, saying: “I have just met with the head of DfI, Southern Division about plans to demolish this bridge in March. We have been reassured that the bridge will be a priority and will be rebuilt within the next 18months (subject to procurement).
We will hold DFI to their commitment”

Press release is available here…