Fears for landmark bridge
Updated on 31 August 2008
An independent expert has been called in to examine one of Ireland's foremost landmarks over fears it is falling apart because of global warming.
Dublin City Council insists the prominent O'Connell Bridge at the foot of the capital's main thoroughfare is structurally sound after routine repairs last week.
But conservationists have spotted a fresh crack in the centuries-old granite crossing over the River Liffey that they say points to serious damage that could result in its collapse.
The National Conservation and Heritage Group believe higher tides caused by climate change are eroding the bridge's structure and may have dangerously weakened its foundations.
The group - made up mainly of a handful of high-ranking politicians, including an MEP and the politician brother of former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern - have called in an independent structural engineer.
Dr Peter McCabe, who specialises in marine engineering and has worked in the field for 40 years, said he is worried from the reports he has received.
He said: "All the indications - from descriptions I'm getting - are that the piers that support the bridge are settling.
"Cracks don't appear on the superstructure of a pier for no reason. The primary reason is usually subsidence, an undermining of the foundation."
The engineering consultant said if his fears are confirmed a detailed underwater examination using powerful lights will be needed at the foundations.
O'Connell Bridge was designed by James Gandon, the revered architect behind many of the city's most impressive buildings, including the Custom House and the Four Courts.
Built in 1794-98, it was originally called the Carlisle Bridge and widened and altered in 1800 before being renamed two years later after Irish political leader Daniel O'Connell.
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