Background
As part of the Galway Transport Strategy , Galway City Council is proposing the provision of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Corrib adjacent to the existing Salmon Weir Bridge.
The development of a world-class shared-use pedestrian and cycle bridge at the Salmon Weir Bridge will bring a number of significant benefits to Galway City, including:
- Removal of current conflicts between vehicles including buses, trucks and cars, and pedestrians/ cyclists on the existing 200 year old bridge.
- Facilitating the development of a cross-city public transport corridor over the existing bridge, as part of the Galway Transport Strategy (BusConnects Galway). BusConnects Galway will enhance public transport in Galway City with strategic high-frequency cross-city bus routes reducing dependency on the single occupant car in the city.
- Enhancing links between both sides of the river, supporting sustainable and active modes of transport, between significant populations in the University Hospital Galway, the National University of Ireland Galway, the Cathedral, the Courthouse, local communities and schools, and the city centre core.
- Creation of a focal point for locals and tourists alike, by offering new views of the river, the Cathedral, angling activities, the canal and the mill race - removed from traffic, and offering a relaxing place close to water and nature, right in the city.
- Supporting the Masterplan for the adjacent Nuns Island , which will extend the city centre into this area and facilitate the regeneration of Nuns Island.
- 'Making a Statement' that captures and celebrates the historical significance of the area on either side of the new bridge.