Samuel Beckett Bridge

The Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin City’s newest bridge, is due to span the maritime gateway to Dublin in 2008. Beckett Bridge, near Macken Street in the Dublin Docklands, will have four traffic lanes with cycle tracks and footpaths on either side of the bridge, while being capable of opening to accommodate maritime traffic. This landmark structure, of unique character, will have a curved profile leaning northwards resulting in a dramatic shape giving the appearance of a harp lying on it’s side.

Designed by the internationally acclaimed Santiago Calatrava Valls, who also designed the James Joyce Bridge, Beckett Bridge will be constructed by Graham Hollandia Joint Venture. Graham Construction have carried out a number of major projects including Taney Bridge in Dundrum while Hollandia have completed a number of high profile works including London Eye.

The total cost of the project is estimated at €47 million, which will also include a major upgrade of the approach roads. With onsite construction starting within weeks it is estimated the project will be due for completion in September 2008. Beckett Bridge will be capable of opening through an angle of 90 degrees, which will accommodate marine traffic to the section of the river upstream of the proposed bridge site. This will be achieved through a rotational mechanism housed in the base of the pylon.

The central axis of the bridge is aligned with Guild Street on the northern side of the River Liffey and it will cross the river at right angles to connect with Sir John Rogerson’s Quay at a location approximately 70 meters west of Cardiff Lane.

In celebrating Beckett’s centenary year, Mr. John O’Donoghue T.D., Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, welcomed the decision by Dublin City Council to name the new Calatrava-designed bridge after Dublin’s own Samuel Beckett. Now Dublin has the privilege of acknowledging and honouring yet another one of the immortals of world literature.