Bridge work set to drag on, says government

MAJOR works on the Menai Suspension Bridge are set to drag on, the Welsh Government has announced.

- By OWEN HUGHES

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 on September 4, 2023, and were completed in October 2024. Welsh Government then delayed the start of phase two with that work starting in March, with a planned completion by the end of the year.

But on Friday they revealed the work will not be finished until spring 2026. This means roadworks and traffic lights will stay in place for months longer, with just one lane open.

Ynys Mon MS Rhun ap Iorwerth said: "This is a huge blow for the local community, its economy and Ynys Mon more widely."

Welsh Government's transport secretary Ken Skates said: "The iconic Menai Suspension Bridge is a historical and significantly important structure for the people of North Wales, as it provides a vital crossing point between Ynys Mon and the mainland.

"The bridge forms part of the A55 Privately Financed Initiative (PFI) across Anglesey, which UK Highways A55 Ltd. manage through a Design, Build, Finance & Operate (DBFO) contract.