Pans Rock Bridge: Future of Ballycastle landmark under review after damage caused by Storm Éowyn

Waves crashing into the Antrim coast at Ballycastle during Storm Éowyn which caused extensive damage to Pans Rock Bridge (IMAGES Cathy Clark)

There are hopeful signs for the future of one of Ballycastle’s most treasured landmarks after engineers were spotted this week surveying Pans Rock Bridge on the Antrim coast.

The iconic structure, located at the eastern end of Ballycastle Beach, was badly damaged during Storm Éowyn on 24 January 2025, when winds nearing 100mph wreaked havoc across Northern Ireland.

The bridge has remained closed since the storm due to concerns over its structural integrity.

Pans Rock Bridge, Ballycastle during Storm Éowyn on January 24, 2025. (IMAGES: Cathy Clark)

A spokesperson for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council confirmed progress is being made:

“Council can confirm that contractors have been appointed to provide a condition report on Pans Rock Bridge, following storm damage.

“Concrete testing has been completed as part of this process.

“Once the stage one report has been received this information will be presented to the Leisure & Development Committee and Full Council for approval to proceed to appoint a contractor.”

Damage caused by Storm Éowyn to Pans Rock Bridge in Ballycastle, County Antrim. (IMAGES: Pat Butler)

A bridge with heritage

The story of Pans Rock Bridge is closely tied to Ballycastle’s industrial past. In the 1800s, the town was a hub for salt production, with seawater boiled in large iron pans to harvest the mineral vital for preserving food.

The remains of these iron pans fused with the natural basalt to create the jagged rock formations that give the site its name.

What began as an industrial relic has since evolved into one of the most photogenic coastal spots in Northern Ireland. Today, Pans Rock Bridge is cherished as a gateway to childhood rock-pooling adventures, romantic sunsets, and sweeping views of Rathlin Island.

Councillor welcomes progress

Engineers surveying Pans Rock Bridge this week. (IMAGE: Anne Kelly)

Local representatives have welcomed news of the initial surveys. Sinn Féin Councillor Cara McShane praised the steps being taken to assess the landmark’s future.

“I welcome the initial surveys of Pans Rock Bridge in Ballycastle following the structural damage caused by Storm Éowyn at the beginning of this year,” she said.

“I look forward to the works feasibility study and remedial options being presented to Council. I understand that will be in the next few months.”

Sinn Féin Councillor Cara McShane

Councillor McShane noted that while the bridge underwent repairs in 2016, this latest damage is far more serious:

“I have been raising this issue since Storm Éowyn caused extensive damage to the much-loved local landmark. Council has spent considerable money in 2016, but this time the damage has been more significant. This will take considerable time, and Council will be looking at all options guided by this study.”

The feasibility study is expected to set out potential options, including repairing the existing structure or replacing the bridge entirely. While a new bridge could provide a longer-term solution, it would require significant funding and investment.

Engineers surveying Pans Rock Bridge this week. (IMAGES: Anne Kelly)

Councillor McShane stressed the importance of managing expectations:

“It is positive to see this process get underway, but it is early days. The solution, whichever is agreed upon, will take a considerable amount of money, but this is an iconic bridge on the seascape of the Ballycastle coastline.”

A landmark for generations

The bridge is more than just a walkway—it is a cultural and emotional anchor for Ballycastle.

“Over the years, there are so many treasured memories for families, residents, and visitors, and I sincerely hope the bridge will be fully restored and reinstated as soon as possible,” Councillor McShane added.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is expected to review the feasibility study later this year. With strong local sentiment attached to the bridge, the decision on its future will be closely watched by the community.

For Ballycastle, the restoration of Pans Rock Bridge represents not only the preservation of a beloved landmark but also an investment in the town’s heritage and tourism appeal.