Survey Data
Reg No
15401819
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Technical
Original Use
Bridge
In Use As
Bridge
Date
1805 - 1810
Coordinates
235308, 253968
Date Recorded
17/11/2004
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Single-arch hump-backed canal accommodation bridge carrying small road over Royal Canal, built c.1809. Constructed of coursed dressed limestone with ashlar limestone parapets and detailing, including projecting string course at parapet base level/road level and voussoirs to arch. Cut stone plaque to southeast parapet reads 'Dolan's Bridge'. Tow path runs under bridge. Located to the north of canal lock (number 26) (15401830), associated lock keeper's cottage (15401831) and Coolnahay Harbour (15401832).
Appraisal
A typically well-built canal bridge, which is a valuable part of the architectural heritage of Westmeath and the industrial heritage of Ireland. Although humble in form, this structure has a simple and functional elegance. It is robustly built in fine stone masonry, which is testament to the long term ambitions of the Royal Canal Company at the start of the nineteenth century. The use of locally sourced material gives it a distinctive visual appeal and helps to integrate this feature into the local landscape.