The footbridge was closed for almost five weeks to facilitate necessary maintenance and painting required to keep the bridge in use, and to ensure a safe route for shoppers.

Customers were advised to take the Quay Pass Road to access the main entrance of Erneside while the Centre remained open for business. 

 The footbridge has been in operation for  28 years and remains a vital link supporting customers and businesses between Erneside and the town centre.

Speaking about the opening of the footbridge, Erneside Shopping Centre manager Jim Masterson said: “We really appreciate the understanding that our customers and tenants have shown over this period, particularly with the weather being so poor. From the feedback we received it was felt that it was better to get the work completed now before winter time and the provision of the free shuttle bus was appreciated particularly by those customers who have mobility concerns.”

Meanwhile, during the closure, Enniskillen BID provided a free shuttle bus service to assist customers who normally use the footbridge to move between Erneside and the town centre. 

The usage and practicality of the bus has been questioned as it has been observed driving through the town on a number of occasions with no passengers onboard. 

Noelle McAloon, Manager of Enniskillen BID said: “The bus is funded by the Enniskillen BID as an initiative that was to assist shoppers and businesses while the Erneside Foot Bridge is temporally closed. The service has been monitored on a week by week basis and it was decided to retain the service.”