Plan for €1.75m footbridge to historic island could be ‘jewel’ for tourism

A €1.75 million cable suspension footbridge to link the historic Bishop’s Island to the Co Clare mainland “could be the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Ireland’s tourism.

In a proposal presented to the West Clare Economic Task Force, Kilkee architect Tom Byrne insisted there was “nothing on the island of Ireland to compare to this project”.

Mr Byrne said the only comparable project was the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge on the Antrim coast which spans a 20 metre wide chasm with a 23m drop to the sea below.

“The Bishop’s Island cable suspension bridge, however, would be a much more spectacular tourist attraction with 117 metres wide chasm and 50-metre drop,” Mr Byrne said.

Cllr PJ Kelly yesterday said the proposal was “a fantastic idea”.

Mayor of Clare Cllr Christy Curtin (Ind) said: “This is a very attractive project. It is very commendable and will add to the attraction of the Loop Head peninsula.”

Mr Byrne said Bishop’s Island “held a fascination with locals and visitors alike for centuries. It is shrouded in mystery due mainly to its inaccessibility and remoteness but also to the fact that its inhabitants were ascetic monks who used its very remoteness for their chosen lifestyle. Research has shown the ruined buildings were constructed pre-12th century but most probably no earlier than the 8th century.”

The two remaining ruins consist of a Clochán dwelling and the other a Church that is of dry-stone construction similar to the famous Gallerus Oratory in Co Kerry.

Mr Byrne said: “This proposed stunning feature when sensitively and responsibly carried out with the blessing of the relevant authorities could be of huge benefit not alone to the peninsula or the mid-west but to the entire country. Allied to this and the opening up of the Loop Head lighthouse as a major tourist destination, the sleeping giant that is this hidden treasure could be the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Ireland’s tourism.”