Big bridge scheme for key A494 road moves step closer

A MASSIVE road scheme on a key route in and out of North Wales is now out to tender. The existing River Dee Bridge that carries the A494 is in a poor condition and needs replacing.

- By OWEN HUGHES

Welsh Government held a consultation and earlier this year an option for a new bridge was chosen. This will include a four lane bridge as well as new hard shoulders on additional sections of the A494.

The government has now started the process to find a contractor to develop the scheme. The total value of the project, including VAT, is £174m.

The estimated dates for the work will be between May 2026 and February 2030. It is planned that the existing bridge will remain in use for a majority of the development timeframe.

Initially Welsh Government is drawing up a shortlist of contractors - likely to be five - before a longer tendering period and a final decision.