It is not known how long the bridge will be closed for
Menai Suspension Bridge(Image: David Powell)
The suspension bridge connecting Anglesey and the Welsh mainland has been closed to cars and motorbikes. The Menai Suspension Bridge in north Wales has been closed after engineer investigations found bolts on the beams under the bridge needed replacing.
The Welsh government said it had tried its best to keep the bridge open for cars and motorbikes, but feedback from UK Highways has led to the decision to temporarily close the bridge.
A spokesperson for the Welsh government said the bridge was closed from 2pm today, Saturday. Emergency service vehicles are in place by second crossing, the Brittania Bridge, should it be affected by the Storm Amy strong winds.
Ken Skates, cabinet secretary for transport and north Wales, said: “Firstly, I want to apologise to local people. I am deeply sorry for the ongoing disruption that you are facing as work continues to remediate the bridge.
“We have explored every option to keep the bridge open safely but following this latest feedback on enforcement from UK Highways A55, who are responsible for the maintenance of the bridge, our hand has been forced to introduce a full closure.
“I’d like to thank the police for their support over the past 24 hours.
“I am incredibly frustrated at this latest development, and I can assure you that my officials and I are pressing UK Highways A55 for an early resolution to this issue.
“However, despite all our frustrations we must listen to the advice from engineers to ensure the safety of everyone.”
“The bridge closure will remain in place until further investigations are completed in the coming days and UK Highways A55 have provided us with a safe enforcement strategy, to reopen the bridge and move forward with phase two works.”
“During this time, we will continue to keep you updated and I thank you once again for your patience.”
The bridge spans the Menai Straight between the island of Anglesey and the Welsh mainland. The Grade I listed structure was the world’s first major suspension bridge.
The bridge has previously been closed in late 2022 while essential work was carried out. The bridge was later reopened but subject to a seven and a half ton weight restriction.
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