Concerns Raised Over Ferry Bridge Closure in New Ross

Cllr John Dwyer has spoken out about the upcoming closure of the Ferry Bridge in the New Ross district, a key route connecting Wexford and Kilkenny. The historic iron bridge, located where the ferry once operated, sees thousands of people cross each week—commuters, shoppers and workers alike.

Dwyer speaking from yesterdays municipal meeting highlighted the disruption the closure will cause. “Traffic from the New Ross hinterland heading to Kilkenny City will now face a 20-kilometre detour,” he said, adding that Kilkenny County Council had not consulted Wexford authorities or fully considered the impact on local residents and businesses.

The closure is set to begin July 24 and is expected to last until the end of August, though Dwyer warned it could extend further. Local businesses could lose 10-20% of their customer base putting smaller enterprises at risk.

Dwyer suggested that the situation underscores the need for a new bridge, warning that similar disruption could return in 10 to 15 years. 

The municipal district meeting also discussed the increasing use of apartments above shops and the practical challenges this brings, including parking and waste management. Dwyer noted that while the policy to use above-shop premises is positive, planning should have accounted for these issues.

On street signage, Dwyer said replacing sandwich boards with bins raised concerns about accessibility for the visually impaired and wheelchair users. The council’s Chief Executive has acknowledged the problem and committed to addressing it.