To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any assessment that has been made of the remaining service life of the Kilrea Bridge, following completion of the recent repair works; (ii) any further works identified as necessary; (iii) the anticipated cost of these works; and (iv) the inspection and monitoring arrangements that will be in place.

I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.

Kilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.

Prior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.

As elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.

No formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.

I understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.