Aontú Deputy Leader Brolly challenges lack of progress as Minister confirms no current plans for new Kilrea bridge
An Aontú representative has expressed deep disappointment that the Department for Infrastructure has no “current plans” for a feasibility study on the idea of building a new bridge at Kilrea.
The Kilrea Bridge, on the B64 Bann Road, was closed on September 20, 2025, in the interest of public safety due to extensive cracking on the retaining wall.
The Department for Infrastructure has said that permanent repair works are continuing to progress as planned, and they “remain optimistic” that the road can be fully reopened to all vehicles by mid-February.
During the closure of the bridge, politicians, business owners and community representatives called for a second bridge to be built as the current Bann Bridge was built in 1783 and is not suitable for modern day traffic.
Aontú Deputy Leader and East Derry representative Gemma Brolly wrote to the Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins on January 7 seeking urgent clarity on the delivery of a new crossing.
In her response, the Minister said that her department has no “current plans to take forward a feasibility study for a new replacement bridge at this location”.
She also said: “The Causeway Coast and Glens (CCG) Local Transport Plan (LTP) will set the framework for making new transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035 for the CCG council area.
"Informed by project studies, this will aim to ensure that the transport network meets the needs of the people and businesses living, working, and visiting the area, both now and in the future.”
Ms Brolly said: "While the reopening of the current bridge to light vehicles is an important step for local businesses, it is not a long-term solution.
“The Minister’s response, however, confirms my fears that without significant public pressure, a new bridge will remain a 'future plan' until it is once again a crisis.
"Kilrea deserves more than just acknowledgement; it needs a plan that meets the demands of 21st-century transport and safety.
"A 240-year-old structure cannot be the only link for our community for the next decade. I will continue to press the Councils and the Department for Infrastructure to stop waiting on planning cycles and start the necessary groundwork today.”