Killykeen Bridge
The pedestrian and cycle bridge in Killykeen has been designed as a sculptural focal point amidst the rugged forestry and pristine lakes of Killykeen Forest Park. Carefully composed to utilise the structure of the existing bridge, minimising the ecological impact of works, the completed bridge offers increased width, allowing comfortable pedestrian and cyclist passage and enhanced connectivity across Lough Oughter. The bridge serves as a key connector within the park, linking Killykeen, the beautiful Garnanoul Loop and Killeshandra, and represents an important investment in local infrastructure and recreational amenity, enhancing the user experience and ensuring that Killykeen Forest Park remains a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
Killykeen Forest Park and Lough Oughter are within the Lough Oughter SPA, Lough Oughter & Associated Loughs SAC, and the wider area is a proposed Natural Heritage Area (pNHA). As such, the construction of the bridge was carefully managed to minimise ecological impact. Rather than demolishing and replacing the existing bridge, our design utilised the existing substructure as the foundation for the upgraded crossing, eliminating the embodied carbon and waste associated with full reconstruction and minimising construction activity in a highly sensitive ecological location.
The bridge is constructed using Irish-grown larch from certified forestry, achieving minimal transport embodied carbon, support for the Irish forestry economy, and a naturally durable finish requiring no chemical treatment.
The form takes reference from Gartanoul, a megalithic court tomb located in Killykeen, constructed over 5,000 years ago. The angular form on approach is representative of the dominant form of the large stone slabs forming the entrance and threshold to the court tomb. It is designed not only as a crossing point but as an interactive sculpture. As one moves through the bridge, it offers elevated views over Lough Oughter, the undulating sides rising and falling, providing an opportunity to pause, appreciate the views, and engage with the tranquillity of the forest park.
