Kilrea Bridge could reopen to light vehicles before Christmas under new interim plan

Kilrea Bridge

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has announced interim measures that could see Kilrea Bridge reopen to cars and light vehicles before Christmas — offering a glimmer of relief to residents and traders after weeks of disruption.

In a statement issued this today, the Department said it had been “working closely” with a specialist contractor since their appointment last week to explore every opportunity to “reduce the timescale and minimise disruption” for the essential safety works.

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.”

The bridge, which spans the River Bann on the B64 Bann Road, has been closed since 20 September after structural concerns were identified. The Department said it will continue to provide regular updates on progress through its dedicated web page: Kilrea Bridge B64 Bann Road Kilrea Closure.

MLA urges action and support for local businesses

North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows has also called for urgent action and a compensation package for local businesses impacted by the prolonged closure.

Mr Burrows said:

“I have been contacted by many residents, traders, and community representatives deeply concerned about the ongoing closure of Kilrea Bridge over the River Bann, which has been shut since 20th September.

“The Department for Infrastructure has now confirmed that repair work will not commence until 10th November and is not expected to be completed until February 2026. This means our community faces an extended period of disruption especially over the Christmas period.

“The impact of this closure cannot be overstated. Local businesses, many of whom rely heavily on the Christmas period for survival, are already suffering significant losses. Residents face longer journeys, school transport has been thrown into disarray, and emergency services are being forced to navigate unnecessary delays.

“While I welcome the fact that repairs are finally scheduled to begin, serious questions remain about how this project has been managed. Why was the feasibility study ordered in 2022 never completed? Why were unrealistic timeframes communicated to the public, creating false expectations and undermining trust? These are issues that demand a full review to ensure accountability and to prevent such mismanagement from happening again.

“In the meantime, I am calling on the Department to urgently put in place a compensation scheme for traders and businesses who are bearing the brunt of this closure. They should not be left to shoulder the financial burden of delays and poor planning from the department.

“I am also grateful to my colleague Cllr Richard Holmes, who continues to keep me updated on the local impact. The closure affects both our constituencies, and we are working together to ensure the community’s concerns are heard.

“Kilrea Bridge is a vital artery for this community. Its repair is essential, but so too is fairness for those who are paying the price of inaction. I will continue to press the Department to deliver both.”

The Department said it remains committed to delivering both the interim and long-term solutions as safely and efficiently as possible, with reopening to cars and light vehicles expected in early December, weather permitting.