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Shannon Navigation Hazard: Low-Hanging Wires at Hartley Bridge

Marine Notice No 20 of 2025

Attention all Masters of Vessels and Waterway users on the Shannon

Waterways Ireland advises that a hazardous obstruction has been identified at Hartley Bridge, located between Carrick-on-Shannon and Leitrim.

A recent inspection confirmed that storm damage to an ESB pole has caused overhead power lines to sag lower than usual. These wires now hang approximately 1.5 meters below the bridge on the southern side, posing a significant risk to vessels with high profiles.

Masters of high-profile vessels must exercise extreme caution when navigating under Hartley Bridge.


Waterways Ireland is working closely with partners to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. We regret any inconvenience caused and appreciate your cooperation in ensuring safe navigation.

For further updates, please monitor Waterways Ireland notices.

Kind regards 

Peter Harty

Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
Inspectorate.Athlone@waterwaysireland.org