New hi-tech access system to deploy on historic bridge works

THE team behind the massive revamp of the Menai Suspension Bridge have explained the work that will take place in the coming months.

- By OWEN HUGHES Chief Reporter [e-mail]

On October 1, 2022, the bridge linking Anglesey and Gwynedd was shut abruptly following the discovery of structural issues.

Phase one works to replace the bridge hangers began in September, 2023, and were completed in October, 2024. Welsh Government then delayed the start of Phase two - with that work starting in March 2025, with a planned completion by the end of the year.

This was then put back to spring 2026, which means roadworks and traffic lights will remain in place for months longer, with just one lane open a decision attacked by Plaid MS Rhun ap Iorwerth.

UK Highways A55 Ltd, and primary contractor Spencer Bridge Engineering, has just released an update after the success of Phase One, which replaced 168 hangers using custom technology.