A busy crossroads in the centre of Drogheda is to remain closed to protect public safety following the collapse of Christmas lights yesterday afternoon.
The incident happened at the Tholsel Crossroad junction of West Street, St Peter's Street and Laurence Street.
Louth County Council said that strong winds caused a large Christmas light installation to fall.
It said the anchorage point supporting the catenary-style festive lights broke free from its structural base, dislodging bricks and a capping stone from the fourth floor level.
The windscreen of a passing car was struck by the falling debris.
The council said the driver of the car was not injured in the incident and that no pedestrians were injured.
Louth County Council's dangerous buildings structural engineer carried out an inspection of the scene and determined that the building at the Tholsel crossroads remains in a "dangerous condition".
Unstable elements were identified at the roof level of the building, and remedial works will also be required on an adjacent building to secure loose masonry.
On the advice of engineers, the crossroads, which incorporate the junction of West Street, Peter's Street, and Laurence’s Street, will remain closed to protect public safety.
The exclusion zone has been extended to include the neighbouring property.
Louth County Council said that scaffolding with safety screening is scheduled to be erected on Monday to enable safe access for builders to carry out necessary repairs.
"Once scaffolding is in place, protection for roads and footpaths will be provided, allowing the roads to reopen", it said.
"Louth County Council is in discussions with the building owners regarding these works. If the owners are unable to act promptly, the council will undertake the necessary measures and recover costs."
The Local Authority said that Christmas lights are owned and installed by the local business improvement district (BIDS) companies on behalf of local traders, and that these companies are responsible for the installation, management and removal of the lighting throughout the festive season.
