High Court calls a halt to building of bridges

The High Court has ordered that construction work on two bridges, one of which has been the scene of protests by local people, in Kilkenny City be halted.

The orders were sought by local resident Christopher O’Keeffe, 35, who claims the construction of temporary access causeways in the River Nore, done to aid the building of the bridges, are causing environmental harm to the river. It is also claimed the causeways could increase the risk of flooding.

Mr O’Keeffe’s claims are based on an expert ecologist’s report which saysconstruction work had to be “urgently restrained” or greater damage to the Nore’s aquatic ecology would be caused.