Boyne Bridge Demolition Begins in Belfast Despite Protests

Excavation machinery has commenced operations at the Boyne Bridge in central Belfast, slated for demolition notwithstanding objections from nearby inhabitants. This structure, situated close to Sandy Row, is being taken apart as an element of the urban renewal project for the thoroughfares surrounding the recently inaugurated Grand Central Station. The station, functioning as a unified transit hub for both bus and rail services, began operations in September. The existing bridge underwent reconstruction in 1936; however, demonstrators seek its preservation due to the belief that William III, also known as King Billy, traversed this location en route to the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. They contended that the bridge ought to be kept, renovated, and integrated into the proposed designs. Approximately 200 individuals participated in a demonstration at the bridge in early November, advocating for its retention. Translink, the public transportation provider, stated that an archaeologist is present at the site during the bridge’s deconstruction to guarantee that the “original Saltwater Bridge is not impacted”. The Boyne Bridge presently constitutes the segment of Durham Street extending between Grosvenor Road and Sandy Row. The removal of the bridge is being carried out at the behest of Translink, the operator of Grand Central Station. A spokesperson for Translink affirmed: “Planning permission was granted for Belfast Grand Central Station by the Department for Infrastructure in March 2019, which included the removal of Durham Street Bridge and construction of new road layout and surrounding public realm space,” The spokesperson further stated: “Enabling work to begin the dismantling of the bridge has been under way for a number of weeks. The entire project is due to be complete by the end of 2025,”