Mobility handrail extended on Graiguecullen Bridge

A handrail extension on Graiguecullen Bridge has been completed to help people with mobility issues navigate the landmark’s steep incline, following advocacy from a local councillor and disability rights group.

Cllr Adrienne Wallace welcomed the improvement, which extends the handrail across the entire length of the bridge. The project came about after the access group from the Carlow branch of the Irish Wheelchair Association raised concerns about the bridge's accessibility.

“This is a very welcome development,” cllr Wallace said. “Graiguecullen Bridge is an iconic landmark in Carlow but unfortunately the steep incline of the bridge made it inaccessible for those in wheelchairs or others with mobility issues.” The councillor successfully petitioned Carlow County Council to extend the handrail after the issue was brought to her attention by the IWA access group.

While acknowledging the improvement, Wallace noted that significant accessibility challenges remain throughout the town, including the need for wider footpaths and re-pavement of Tullow Street.

She also renewed her call for the council to appoint an accessibility officer, a position that local authorities are legally required to have. “Despite my calls for one in Carlow we are still waiting to see the role be advertised,” Wallace said.

An accessibility officer would “feed into every project and department and ensure inclusivity is at the core of the council’s work and not just an after-thought,” she explained.

Wallace thanked Carlow MD Engineer Cian Madden and the workers who installed the handrail for their role in improving safety and accessibility in the town.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​