Effects such as noise, air quality and vibration cannot be quantified until the bridge is built, but there is a recommendation that a noise barrier be erected along the length of the motorway at the Broadmeadow estuary crossing. Apart from the noise and disruption to the area, the most obvious impact will be visual. The Report simply suggests that the visual impact of the proposed bridge will be less severe than any of the alternatives, but this does not answer the question with regard to actual visual impact. There is a recommendation that trees be retained at Lissenhall, at Hutchinson’s Strand Lane, and that the embankments be landscaped.

Prospect Point

On the other side of the new bridge, we come to Prospect Point (former stables of Lissenhall House) which overlooks the Estuary at the north entrance. The estuary widens appreciably at this point, and Malahide is clearly visible across the sea. This inlet was known as Inver Donan (Donan was one of the gods of the Fir Donan tribe who were related to the Fir Bolg).

Seatown Castle

Across the water can be seen the ruins of Seatown Castle, the home of the Dickie family for many years. [The castle was roofed and now acts as a barn. Seatown Castle was built by the Russell family about 1500].

The Viaduct

The viaduct consisting of 12 arches was built in the 1840s to enable the trains to cross the sea on their journeys from Dublin to Belfast. After Prospect Point, the next town land is called Newport, and there is then a road to the left leading to Ballymadrough (Bealach M’Eadróg, the pass of Eder). The Seafield demesne is on the right, and this was formerly the home of Squire Arthurs, the man who opened the copper mines in Loughshinny. On the opposite side of the inlet is the road to Malahide. This was the original road to Malahide. The present day Swords to Malahide Road was built by the Talbot family of Malahide.

The Estuary

This area around the Estuary has long been a favourite walk for the people of Swords because of its tranquillity and great natural beauty. Parents have brought their children to the Estuary to feed the swans, and to admire the splendid views of the birds, the sea and Malahide. It is to be hoped that this area will continue to be available to the people of Swords, and that it will not be destroyed in the quest for progress.

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