Barton calls for action on Kesh footbridge

Mrs. Barton said: “I recently raised the matter with the Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon to again impress the significant health and safety concerns [arising from] the damaged footbridge in Kesh, and urge a resolution to this frustrating issue that has been ongoing since the bridge was damaged in November, 2016.

“This long-standing issue has been pushed from one organisation to another, without anyone taking overall responsibility, while there is such procrastination, the local people and visitors are suffering due to the bridge not being accessible.

“DfI have agreed to work with the Council and other stakeholders to attempt to find a resolution to the matter, with the potential of the bridge then being adopted by DfI.

"This is a more positive aspect than we have encountered in recent times from any of the organisations involved with the structure.”

In a reply, Minister Mallon said: "I am acutely aware this private footbridge is of vital importance to the residents of the village of Kesh and visitors.

"My officials are continuing to work closely with their counterparts from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to seek to find a mechanism to secure the repair of the river wall and footbridge foundation.

"Funding opportunities for the works associated with this footbridge are being pursued by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and will also require agreement from a range of stakeholders.

"Once funding and agreement from the stakeholders is secured, I am committed to the delivery of this work in conjunction with the Council to put this important footbridge back into service and have it adopted by my Department."

Minister Mallon added: "In the interim, there is no reasonable alternative facility that can be provided to meet the needs of pedestrians; however, it is noted there have been no recorded incidents at this location since the bridge sustained damage in 2016."