Glennys Bridge, Benagh Road, Donaghmore, Newry, Co Down, BT34 2RG

This is a small, 18th century bridge carrying a road over the Clanrye River. The bridge is of particular interest due to its unusual pedestrian refuges, which are characteristic of pre-19th century bridge design and relatively rare in the province. The bridge’s name relates to a now-demolished flour mill located to the north (HB15/14/031), and it contributes positively to the surrounding landscape.

The bridge consists of two semicircular arches constructed from random granite rubble with roughly dressed voussoirs. Between each arch, an angled cutwater rises to form a pedestrian refuge. The parapets are coped with roughly squared granite blocks, and the walls continue along the east side as field boundaries, with the road at a higher level. The carriageway has a noticeable hump. The bridge has been heavily repointed with cement, and the voussoirs are now ribbon pointed.

The bridge was labelled ‘Old Mill Br’ on an Ordnance Survey map from 1834, and ‘Glennys Br’ on the 1860 edition; its construction date is considered to be between 1700 and 1719. It possesses industrial archaeological interest, and is valued for its style, proportions, plan form, and structural system. Although alterations detract from the original character, the bridge retains local interest and is considered a rare example of its type.