Derry's Foyle Bridge will be closed when wind speeds reach over 50mph, it was announced today.
A new €1.15 million safety system is being introduced following the death of a driver whose lorry was blown off the bridge onto mudflats 100ft below in January last year.
An investigation into the death of Peter McGuinness from Aghagallon, near Lurgan, cleared the authorities of any blame in leaving the bridge open despite a severe weather warning at the time.
But after a review of procedures for shutting it during high winds, a series of variable message signs are to be strategically placed as part of wind monitoring equipment before next winter warning drivers and advising of alternative routes.
When winds reach 30mph, traffic speeds will be limited to 30mph.
If winds get to 4Omph, drivers of high sided vehicles will be advised to use Craigavon Bridge and when they reach 50mph the bridge will be closed completely.