12 January 2005

CONSULTANTS ENGAGED TO INVESTIGATE ACCIDENT

DRD Roads Service has confirmed that Hyder Consultants Limited, one of the UK’s leading bridge consultants, has been commissioned to investigate and report on the circumstances of the accident which occurred yesterday at the Foyle Bridge in Londonderry and resulted in the tragic death of Mr McGuinness. The PSNI are also conducting their own investigation.

Announcing the move, the Chief Executive of Roads Service, Dr Malcolm McKibbin said:

"Whilst Roads Service adhered to procedures which have stood us in good stead over the past 10 years, we have decided to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident and the continuing appropriateness of those procedures.

"Roads Service monitors the average wind speeds on the bridge which are measured at the site every three seconds. If the average wind speed exceeds 50 mph, Roads Service considers closing the bridge in consultation with the PSNI. Alternatively, if the PSNI considers that the bridge should be closed on the basis of their own information it will contact Roads Service and the bridge will be closed.

"In relation to questions raised about the containment fencing, I can advise that the vehicle restraint system on the Foyle Bridge was assessed by consultants prior to the current strengthening works. It was found that it complies with current design standards. A recent inspection also found the restraint fencing to be in satisfactory condition.

"A contraflow arrangement is now in operation on one carriageway of the bridge. This arrangement will remain in place until the investigation of the accident site has been completed and the fencing has been repaired. It is expected that this will take around three days."

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