PUNCH Consulting Engineers undertook the detailed design and PSDP role for the replacement of the existing Fethard Road bridge spanning to Limerick to Waterford railway lines.

The bridge was widened to improve safety for both pedestrian and vehicle users. This was achieved by part demolition of the original structure and widening to increase capacity. New footpaths were also provided to improve access for the considerable pedestrian traffic that uses the bridge.

The original masonry arch structure was demolished down to springing point under track possession from Irish Rail. The new bridge deck was constructed using concrete portal beams cast on site by the main contractor. An in-situ concrete stitch and deck completed the structural elements of the structure. Bridge parapets were cast on site, incorporating natural stone facing as part of the casting process.

The existing bridge structure was widened using concrete beams cast on site by the Contractor. The bridge abutments for the widened portion of the bridge were cast in-situ concrete. The existing masonry arch was demolished to springing level and replaced with a similar concrete beam structure. An in-situ concrete deck and precast concrete parapets, with cast in masonry facing to the railway face, completed the bridge works.

The reduced vertical profile of the new structure allows for improved road profile overhead, with an additional traffic lane also being added to increase capacity. In addition a new 28m ICD roundabout at the Fethard Road / Thomas Street junction is provided to improve user access, particularly for the busses that serve the bus station adjacent the site.

Extensive liaison and co-ordination with Iarnród Eireann was required to secure approval and necessary licenses for the design.