The Welsh government has announced the temporary closure of Menai Suspension Bridge due to bolts on beams under the structure that need to be replaced.
The closure follows recent investigation work by UK Highways A55, which operates and maintains the bridge on behalf of the Welsh government.
A 3-tonne weight limit was initially put in place with the aim of keeping the bridge open to minimise disruption along the crucial road link between mainland Wales and the Isle of Anglesey.
However, due to issues regarding enforcement, engineers recommended a temporary closure to all vehicles.
The bridge will remain closed until a suitable traffic management plan can be implemented. Pedestrians and cyclists can continue to use the bridge.
‘Incredibly frustrating’
Ken Skates, cabinet secretary for transport and North Wales, said he was “deeply sorry” for the ongoing disruption locals 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,” he said.
“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.”
Essential works
Phase 2 works on the bridge include painting the underdeck, parapets and bearing access, repairing concrete corbels, recalibrating the land saddle and upgrading lighting.
The bolts under the bridge will need to be replaced before the phase 2 works can progress.
In October 2022, the bridge was closed following a detailed technical analysis, which revealed a potential issue concerning the span hangers.
The bridge was initially shut completely in both directions but was soon reopened to foot passengers.
In February 2023, the bridge was reopened to traffic in both directions, subject to a 7.5-tonne weight restriction.
Phase 1 works to replace the bridge hangers started in September 2023 and were completed in October 2024.
