Dundesert Bridge

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

A triple-arched masonry bridge carrying the main road over the Dundesert River. Random rubble basalt with roughly shaped voussoirs to segmental arches. Rough triangular cutwaters to each face. Recessed arch and spandrel panel to each face. Parapets have been raised and finished with horizontal concrete feather-edged copings. Some damage to ends of parapets at western extremity where stonework dislodged. Parapets continue as field walls at the east end on both north and south faces, with concrete skirting on north face. Carriageway flat.

SETTING: The bridge is situated in a very rural area with trees and bushes in the immediate vicinity.

Historical information

Precise date of construction not known but appears on OS map of 1832-3 where it is named. This structure was previously listed and then delisted. The road at this point is also shown on Lendrick’s map of 1780 which suggests a bridge was in existence then.

References – Primary Sources
1. J. Lendrick, A Map of the County of Antrim from Actual Survey (London, 1782).
2. OS Map 1832-3, Co Antrim 55.
Secondary Sources
1. IHR no. 7285.

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

Not listed

Criteria for listing: historic interest

Not listed

Evaluation

This is a typical example of an early 19th century bridge of robust construction which stands in a relatively unspoiled rural setting.