Bridge in Ballydehob

Twelve-arch former railway bridge spanning Rahruane River, built 1884-1886. Now in use as pedestrian bridge. Coursed cut and dressed stone walls, battered and rusticated to base. Rendered coping and voussoirs to round arches. Plaque to north elevation.

Designed by S.A. Kirkby and John William Dorman, this railway bridge carried the Skibbereen to Schull light railway from 1886 until the service was discontinued in 1947. It is a fine example of the quality of craftsmanship employed by the railway authority in the construction of their utilitarian structures throughout the latter half of the nineteenth century. The elegant composition employs materials of superior quality along with well-executed and considered detailing. Its imposing rhythmic form is a prominent and pleasing feature in the landscape.

The elegant composition employs materials of superior quality along with well-executed and considered detailing.