This project involved the design, fabrication, and installation of new galvanised steel access stairs to provide safe and durable access from the existing ground level to a newly constructed platform. The stairs had to be erected over a live fish stream that functions as a critical bypass route for fish to avoid the adjacent hydro station.

Given the environmental sensitivity of the site, especially the presence of the active fish stream, detailed erection planning and a comprehensive lifting plan were essential. All work had to be carefully coordinated to ensure there was no disruption to the stream flow or contamination of the waterway.

The stairs were fabricated from hot-dip galvanized steel to provide long-term corrosion resistance and structural durability in an outdoor, wet environment.

Pre-fabrication off-site minimised the time and environmental risk during on-site assembly. Crane lifts and installation procedures were executed with environmental protection measures in place and exclusion zones to protect the stream habitat.

This project successfully delivered a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible access solution while preserving the integrity of the fish passage and the surrounding ecosystem.

The stairs now enable site personnel to safely reach the platform for operations and maintenance activities.

McMenamin Engineering deserve recognition in the Constructional Steelwork Civil Works for the access stair supplied to the ESB Hydro Station in Ballyshannon, as we demonstrated exceptional precision and care in design, fabrication, and installation in a highly sensitive ecological setting.

The durable, low-maintenance galvanised steel stair was seamlessly installed over a live fish stream because of careful planning and coordination between all parties and is an example of how steelwork can be delivered safely, sustainably and to the highest standards.