Saving The Arch at brackenstown.

The arch at Brackenstown Waterworks requires urgent intervention. This is an open letter to anyone that can do something with the information. Originally sent to the team Customer Service team at Fingal CC by email Thursday 7th September 2023.


INDEX
The Backstory
The Problem
The Proposed Solution
Photos

Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/ieuQKZgzx7wdJ57m7

Approx GPS: 53°27’28.4″N 6°15’02.6″W
Brackenstown, Co. Dublin

Hello Planning & GI team
I’m addressing this message to your department (Planning & GI)  as the sign erected at the area concerned is signed by you. If it is better to address an alternate department then please let me know.

The backstory

Skip ahead if you want the problem details / proposed solution

As part of my local studies, I have had the opportunity to visit several local landmarks. One of them is the Arch that stands at the eastern end of the waterworks in Brackenstown.

I understand that you are aware of its state; I’ve, of course, seen your signs and fences. The signs and fences are not the specific matter I’m writing to you about now. You’re already aware of the importance of this Arch; you summed it up well in your own signposted statement. “…stabilize the structure and preserve it for the enjoyment of future generations…” That’s a great medium-term goal, but short-term urgent action is required.

I’m not being alarmist, and I understand you have a process to follow. But I suggest that by whatever means you authorized the erection of the temporary fencing and signage, you can possibly use similar methods to erect some short-term water diversion or erosion protection for the upcoming season.

I understand that taking immediate action can be bureaucratic, so I would appeal to all departments to work together in the interest of protecting the heritage of swords. I should reiterate that this observation concerns specifically the river flow erosion and not any potential human damage. These are separate issues. The actions taken to date (fencing, etc.) have all focused on blocking human erosion but not the damage the water flow is actively causing. Thank you for your understanding of that point.

The Problem

The urgent matter I want to bring your attention to is the impending Winter rainwater, which will bring a rise in flow rate and the water table. In the next month or so, it will be necessary to take precautions as the erosion on the southeastern bank of the Arch is significant, and a collapse of that bank may be suffered this Winter if no action is taken.

The wet summer of 2023 has intensified the urgency of this matter. There have been spring-level flows through this location during my observations throughout the summer. At present (Thursday, September 7th, 2023), the water at the Arch is at a low point, making it the perfect time for action. If it is possible to gather resources similar to the fencing project, I believe that taking action now could prevent irreversible damage and help protect the structure for both current and future generations. This weather break presents a golden opportunity.

Proposed Solution

I have included some images of the water erosive damage as it stands and crudely drawn on an image where temporary hoarding could possibly be installed. This would help take the force out of the current and divert the flow through the center of the arch, offering some measure of protection against the increased flow.

I am at your service, offering my assistance and expertise for any action you may require, although I’m certain that there are individuals more capable than myself to execute such tasks. Please feel free to ask any questions or seek clarification. I am available for contact via email, phone, or in-person meetings and demonstrations at the designated location.

Thank you in advance for recognizing the importance of this structure. I look forward to it being a part of Swords’ future.

Water Flow direction and possible erosion protection measures.

E) Blue arrows the water flow, the current makes a 90degree turn and in the process erodes the bank which in turn endangers the arch stupporting walls.

D) The base of the arch on the south east side of the arch, the most eroded area.

C) The opposite wall of the arch which is not as bad and would benefit from protection from any diverted flow

B) The south east bank which has dry cracks and is being under cut causing an overhang.

A) Suggested low tech diversion system taking the force off the structure but still allowing water to pass. Simple materials like the timber used in the fencing and faced with shuttering ply will do. It only need be temporary. A barrier height of approx 600mm should be enough.

Video of flow through arches 200m upstream at ushers lake at high flow time of year. It’s this flow that will head towards the Arch this winter & spring.