Operating procedures for Northern Ireland's Foyle Bridge should be reviewed to enable speed and vehicle restrictions during high winds, Hyder Consulting has concluded following a review into a fatal accident which happened in January. A driver was killed when his articulated heavy goods vehicle blew partly onto its side, damaged the parapet and fell from the bridge. Strengthening and maintenance work was under way but have been cleared of being a contributory factor. Wind speeds were below the 50 mph threshold which triggers consultation on the need for a road closure. These procedures and thresholds were reasonable, Hyder found, given that there is no history of accidents or of vehicles struggling to maintain control due to high winds on the bridge.
Future measures could include variable message signs to enable progressive speed or high-sided vehicle restrictions on windy days, says Hyder, and the speed limit should also be reviewed.
Hyder carried out the study for the Roads Service, an executive agency within the Department for Regional Development. Hyder's brief included a review of parapet details, operating procedures, accident data and contributing factors.
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