The faithful restoration of one of Cork’s most iconic structures. The timely execution of the structural repairs ultimately prevented the introduction of load restrictions and eventual closure of the bridge. Analytical structural models and physical accelerometer measurements were used to record and monitor the natural frequency and vibration response of the structure before and after the repair works.
This 51m long cable suspension bridge is a well-known local landmark and its colloquial name, ‘Shakey bridge’, derives from the lively movement of the deck under pedestrian loading. It remains the only suspension bridge in Cork City and the only surviving bridge of its type in Ireland.
This comprehensive rehabilitation project included the phased dismantling of the latticed deck for off-site for grit-blasting, structural repairs and repainting. Temporary working platforms enabled structural repairs and repainting of the steel towers in-situ. The team employed innovative technology and techniques in the restoration: 3D terrestrial laser scanning acquired accurate detailed survey information of the bridge geometry.