Low and weight-restricted bridges
There is an interactive map of where low bridges and weight-restricted bridges are located in Northern Ireland. They range from box culvert to large steel structures such as the Foyle Bridge. You should be very careful when approaching or using one of these bridges.
Low bridges - interactive map
Each year large vehicles collide with overhead bridges. Such collisions endanger lives, as well as cause delays on the road and rail networks.
A railway bridge collision could derail a train, with potentially disastrous consequences.
The interactive map at the following link shows drivers of high vehicles, or vehicles with high loads, about bridges with less than 16 feet six inches (5.03 metres) clearance.
List of low bridge locations
You can also find a list of low bridge locations at this link:
Weight-restricted bridges
To protect the road network (including bridges) and the safety of road users, weight restrictions refer to maximum gross weight (MGW), rather than laden or unladen weight .
The bridges are shown on the interactive map.
You can also find a list of weight-restricted bridge locations at this link:
Know your road signs
Road signs are used to show the maximum headroom of the hazard in both imperial and metric units (see examples below).
Do not ignore them.
Advance warning of a low bridge
Some arch bridges may have a specific headroom over a specific width. This is shown by a white chord on the arch, as below.
Black and yellow bands may be added to the arches or girders and parapet walls to improve their visibility.
Special road markings may also be used to help guide high vehicles through the highest part of the arch.
Remember these three simple safety rules:
- know your height
- know your route
- know your signs
If you have a long load, remember to take care at bridges where the road curves or dips.
If you have a collision
If your vehicle does collide with a bridge, tell the PSNI immediately and advise the relevant authority.
If it is a railway bridge, Northern Ireland Railways must be told immediately.
- phone: 028 9089 9400
Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Roads
Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Roads is the sole road authority in Northern Ireland, responsible for around 5,800 bridges.
If you need any further information, contact DfI Roads.