Bridge safety system is installed

The system will warn of strong winds on the Foyle Bridge

A new £800,000 warning system alerting motorists to high winds is being put in place for the Foyle Bridge in Londonderry.

A series of message signs are currently being installed across the city.

They will warn drivers of high winds on the bridge and advise them of alternative routes.

The Roads Service decided to install the system after a lorry driver died when his vehicle was blown off the bridge last year.

Peter McGuinness, from Aghagallon, near Lurgan, was killed when the heavy goods vehicle he was driving was blown off the bridge onto mudflats 100 ft below.

A report into the death recommended a review of operating procedures in strong winds.

The Hyder report found the authorities were not at fault in leaving the bridge open despite a severe weather warning.

The Roads Service said the winds had not reached the level which would normally require the bridge's closure.

The report found that the bridge parapets were in good condition but it did identify certain areas where the Roads Service could improve the management of the bridge during adverse weather conditions.