11/06/2026
I previously raised serious concerns about the sudden closure of two key footbridges in Craigavon, announced with just 24 hours’ notice. These bridges are vital links for local communities, and their closure has caused real hardship, particularly for elderly and vulnerable residents.
Following a meeting with the Department for Infrastructure, we now have further clarity on the situation. The bridges have been assessed as a “brittle failure” risk. While there is no danger to vehicles travelling on the carriageway below if the bridge remains closed, there is a risk of sudden collapse if the bridge were to stay open and continue to carry heavy loads.
On that basis, the decision to close the bridges has been taken on safety grounds.
However, this does not diminish the very real impact on local people. With limited safe alternatives, many residents are being forced to use routes such as the Parkmore underpass, which is widely considered unsafe, or face the risk of crossing a busy dual carriageway.
I have pressed the Department on what can be done to ease this situation. They have now identified a possible temporary route that could reduce the current diversion to approximately 250 metres, which would be a significant improvement.
In terms of longer-term solutions, I have been advised that:
The existing bridges cannot be repaired
A temporary bridge option was explored, but the challenges outweigh the benefits and delivery would take similar time to constructing a new permanent bridge
While not completely ruled out, a temporary structure is unlikely at this stage
The possibility of pedestrian crossings was also raised. This would require changes to the speed limit and could significantly impact traffic flow. Again, it has not been ruled out, but it is unlikely to be delivered quickly.
While safety must always come first, serious questions remain about how this situation was handled and why communities were given so little warning. I will continue to press for practical, timely solutions and to ensure the needs and safety of local residents are properly addressed.
