Excellent progress has been made on works to restore the Menai
Suspension Bridge. Following the replacement of all 168 hangers
on the bridge it has been confirmed that phase one of the
programme will be completed on schedule. The bridge will reopen
on Saturday 2 November [00:01hrs].
The start of phase two works, which amongst other things involves
the repainting of the bridge, will be paused for four months
(November 2024 – February 2025) to allow for the full reopening
of the bridge, including the lifting of the 7.5 tonne weight
limit, over the winter period. This will not impact the schedule
for the 200th anniversary in January 2026.
This will bring a number of benefits including:
- A smother and more efficient delivery of phase two works, due
to improved weather conditions.
- An alternative route if the Britannia Bridge (A55) is
impacted by severe weather (high winds), incidents and
emergencies. This will also help prevent HGV's and other
vulnerable vehicles not being able to cross the Menai Straits due
to the 7.5 tonne weight limit being temporarily lifted.
- Improved local business opportunities, especially during the
Christmas period.
- Holyhead Port remaining operational for longer.
- Enabling the ‘Always Aim High's' Anglesey Half Marathon to
use the Menai Suspension Bridge as part of their route for the
event, attracting new business opportunities for the local
community.
The Cabinet Secretary Transport and North Wales, said,
“The completion of phase one works is great news. It has been a
challenging time, and I want to place on record my thanks to
everyone affected by the works.
“We've listened to the feedback from local communities and have
decided to pause the start of phase two works to allow for the
full reopening of the bridge over the winter period.
“But rest assured this delay will not affect the 200th
anniversary of the bridge in January 2026.”
Before the start of phase two works a period of communication
will take place with the general public and stakeholders.
