The bridge was closed for five weeks in 2022
The bridge outside Kilrea, Co Derry
A historic Co Londonderry bridge is to close for the second time in three years due to concerns over its structural integrity, the Department for Infrastructure has confirmed.
Kilrea Bridge – known locally as the Bann Bridge – will be closed from Saturday September 20 after concerns were raised over the integrity of a retaining wall.
The bridge has been in place for more than two centuries, having originally been built in 1783.
It was closed in 2022 for a period of five weeks to allow a £225,000 maintenance project to be carried out. Diversions were put in place via nearby Portglenone and Agivey.
The work was undertaken to waterproof the bridge deck and wingwalls, as well as repairing the parapet deck to extend the lifetime of the structure.
A DfI spokesperson said the latest closure would last “several weeks”.
“Following a recent safety inspection the Department identified vertical and diagonal cracking on the retaining wall located at the south-west end of the Bridge,” they said.
The bridge outside Kilrea, Co Derry
News Catch Up – Friday 19th September
“In the interest of public safety, the Department has taken the decision to close the road until such times as the retaining wall can be fully assessed, and repairs carried out.
“We acknowledge this will create disruption and apologise for any inconvenience caused, however, the safety of all road users is paramount.
“The road will remain closed to traffic for several weeks while the Department arranges for a temporary solution to be implemented. Once these works are complete the road will be reopened while a permanent solution is developed.
“Local diversions are in place and we urge the travelling public to follow the signage, drive with due care and attention and allow extra time for their journeys.”