Waterways Ireland advises masters of vessels and waterway users that the Grand Canal is closed for all vessel navigation from 13th Lock to the 14th Lock due to significant damage to Devonshire Bridge. This closure is effective immediately as of 18:00 on Thursday, 27 March 2025, and will remain in place until further notice.
This closure is a safety precaution following a major bridge strike by a road vehicle. As a result, the bridge parapet is unstable, posing a risk to navigation and public safety – see image below. This closure is unrelated to the planned closure of L’Estrange Bridge on 29-30 March 2025, see Marine Notice 24.
Location Details:
- Devonshire Bridge is situated approx. 150m northeast of the 14th Lock.
- Devonshire Bridge is crossed by the L2010, Sherlockstown Common, Killeenbeg, Co. Kildare, near Killeen Golf Club.
Restrictions in Place:
- The canal is closed between 13th Lock to the 14th Lock due to limited space for vessels to turn on this section of the canal.
- The Greenway remains open.
- Vehicular access over the bridge is also restricted. Kildare County Council have installed a traffic management system on the L2010.
Waterways Ireland appreciates the cooperation of all users and apologises for any inconvenience caused. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Peter Harty
Inspector of Navigation
Inspectorate.Athlone@waterwaysireland.org
