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A DfI spokesperson confirmed that, following the appointment of a specialist contractor last week, work is under way to accelerate essential safety repairs and minimise disruption. “As previously outlined, the permanent solution requires specialist equipment to drill between the two approach walls beneath the existing road surface,” a statement read. "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, the Department said an interim measure has now been agreed to install temporary tie-bars, providing short-term support while the main repairs continue. If weather conditions permit, this approach could allow the bridge to reopen to light traffic in early December. A spokesperson added: “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.” Meanwhile, Retail NI and Hospitality Ulster have urged the Northern Ireland Executive and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to introduce a support package for local traders who are suffering significant losses due to the disruption. The call was made during a meeting in Kilrea involving business owners, community representatives, and elected officials. Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI, and Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster, said: “Our members in Kilrea are experiencing a huge drop in trade because of the closure of the bridge. Over the fourteen weeks of repairs, they will lose the vital trading periods of Christmas and most likely Valentine’s Day. “This loss of trade would be bad at the best of times, but in the run-up to Christmas it is disastrous for our members, who depend on this income to sustain their businesses throughout the year. “The Executive needs to produce a trader support package, similar to the Sandy Row scheme, and immediately activate the Rates Hardship Fund. “In the long term, Kilrea needs a new bridge to ensure this situation never happens again.”
