PSNI carry out spot checks on vehicle weight on Kilrea bridge
The PSNI are carrying out spot checks on vehicles travelling across the newly re-opened Bann Bridge in Kilrea to ensure drivers are adhering to weight limits.
The Bann Bridge was closed on 20 September in the interest of public safety due to extensive cracking on the retaining wall located at the south-west end of the Bridge.
The lengthy closure was heavilt criticised by local politicians and Kilrea business owners, some of whom claimed to have lost 60% of trade since the bridge closure.
The Department for Infrastructure announced that temporary stabilisation works had been installed and the road reopened to cars and light vehicles, up to 3 tonnes, on Saturday, December 6.
Within hours of the bridge re-opening, a vehicle had become stuck leading to tail backs.
Now the DfI have said that the PSNI will be carrying out spot checks to identify vehicles exceeding the weight limit.
"Enforcement action will be taken against anyone found contravening the restrictions. If you witness a breach, please report it directly to the PSNI. Additional signage will be installed to reinforce the message that HGVs are prohibited from crossing,” the DfI website said.
"The permanent repair works are continuing to progress as planned and are expected to finish by mid-February 2026. Once complete, the road will fully reopen to all vehicles.”
The DfI also said on its website: “Repairing the bridge is a top priority, and we are doing everything within our power to accelerate the development and delivery of a solution that will allow the road to reopen as quickly and safely as possible.”