The bridge at Iniscarn Road in Desertmartin has collapsed following last week’s storm. PIC BY MARK O’CONNOR
A Co Derry bridge has partially collapsed days after strengthening work was completed by engineers.
The Iniscarn Road near Desertmartin has been closed in both directions.
Engineers from the Department for Infrastructure are expected to carry out a full assessment of the damage later.
DUP councillor for Moyola Anne Forde described the collapse as a bit of a calamity, adding that she thought last week’s storms had weakened the bridge.
“Some time ago there was a wee bit of work done to it but the weather we had last week, I have been led to believe the structure may have been damaged,” she said.
“There would be a considerable amount of traffic using and it a lot of famers would use it.”
A local diversion has been put in place.
A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said: “The extent of the damage will require full assessment by departmental bridge engineers.”
The PSNI said: “To avoid current closure at Iniscarn Road drivers coming from Draperstown must go right onto Brackaghlislea Road and then left onto Gortahurk Road.”
Meanwhile, the main Derry to Carndonagh road remains Monday closed after part of it collapsed following last week’s thunder and rain storms which battered Derry and Donegal.
Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin visited the scene yesterday along with Charlie McConalouge T.D. and local councillor Martin McDermott.
Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin TD inspects the damage to the main Derry to Carndonagh Road. PIC BY DONAL DUNN
The road will not be open for quite a while due to the massive damage caused by the flood waters.
Speaking at the scene, Mr Martin said: “It’s just very, very lucky that nobody lost their life.”
He added that there was no question that funding should not be an issue when it comes to rehoming people and replacing belongings.
“When an emergency like this emerges and a devastating storm like this occurs then the State has to get involved and help commnunties to get back on their footing.
“It will take funding but given the nature and scale of the damage I don’t think anyone would begrudge funding being put into these areas.”
He said that there must be follow-through when all the cameras have left Inishowen.
“When you look at children and look at how their whole lives have been turned upside down, I think we have to have follow through for these children.
“We will be conscious that once the helplines move away then the follow through happens,” he said.
A benefit concert is being held in Letterkenny this Sunday, September 3, at 2 pm in the Aura Leisure Centre to raise money for Donegal flood victims.
Among those playing are country stars Daniel O’Donnell and Nathan Carter.
Tickets are now on sale priced at local outlets and the Aura Centre priced €30.
Doors open at 1.30 pm.
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