Bridge, Kilready, Newtownbutler, Co Fermanagh, BT92 6EZ

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

A semi-elliptical span carries an accommodation track over the single track railway line formerly between Clones and Newtownbutler. It is of random rubble limestone construction, embellished with rock-faced voussoirs (with tooled span edge) and similarly detailed string course through the arch at spring level; the latter also wrap around the abutment quoins. The parapets terminate in piers which advance beyond the outer faces. The approach walls are slightly battered and each has tooled edging. The parapets step up from south to north following the ascent of the road.

The actual cutting which the bridge spanned has been infilled hereabouts almost to arch spring level. However, the original level is clearly evident some distance to the east and west.

Historical information

This bridge is on the line between Clones and Lisbellaw which opened in 1858. It was probably built under the supervision of Sir John Macneill, engineer to the Dundalk & Enniskillen Railway Co. The D&ER became the Irish North Western Railway in 1862. In 1876 the INW amalgamated with the Ulster and Northern Railways to form the Great Northern Railway. The line closed in 1957.

Secondary sources:
1. S. Johnson, Johnson's Atlas & Gazetteer of the Railways of Ireland (Leicester, 1997).

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

A. Style
B. Proportion
C. Ornamentation
D. Plan Form
F. Structural System
J. Setting

Criteria for listing: historic interest

X. Local Interest

Evaluation

This semi-elliptical single span bridge carries an accommodation track over the single track railway line formerly between Clones and Newtownbutler. It is of random rubble limestone construction embellished with rock-faced voussoirs. The design is somewhat unusual in its stepped parapets. It is in an unaltered state and despite the removal of the railway it remains a significant feature just off the Lisnaskea to Clones road and provides an historical link to the former railway period.