The Department for Infrastructure has announced plans that could
see the Kilrea Bridge reopen to cars and light vehicles before
Christmas.
A DfI spokesperson said: “Since appointing the specialist
contractor last week the Department has been working closely with
them to explore every opportunity to reduce the timescale and
minimise disruption for these essential safety works.
“As previously outlined, the permanent solution requires
specialist equipment to drill between the two approach walls
beneath the existing road surface. Tie-bars will then be
installed to structurally connect the retaining walls on either
side of the road. This is a complex and time-consuming process
with limited scope for acceleration.
“However, we are pleased to confirm that an interim solution has
now been established to install a number of temporary tie-bars to
provide temporary restraint to the walls whilst the main repairs
are carried out. We are optimistic that the use of temporary
tie-bars will allow the road to reopen to cars and light vehicles
in early December, subject to suitable weather conditions.
“The Department fully appreciates the impact this closure is
having and the understandable frustration of the local community,
including businesses in the area. The Department is
committed to reopen the road as soon as possible whilst
protecting the public as a priority. We want to thank
everyone for their patience while we work to deliver a safe and
effective solution.”
We will continue to provide regular updates and maintain the
dedicated web page to keep the public informed of progress and
key milestones: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/kilrea-bridge-b64-bann-road-kilrea-closure
