Two months of delays on Newtown Road

Motorists using the Newtown road can expect up to two months of delays after it was revealed that a bridge will need extensive work carried out.

The Glan Hafren Bridge is on the A483 one-mile north of Abermule and will undergo strengthening and refurbishment over the next two months, starting from tomorrow (Monday).

The bridge deck is over 120 years old and has deteriorated over time with these works ensuring the bridge remains safe to use and its heritage value is maintained.

“A lane closure under temporary traffic light control is required on the A483 to allow space for a construction plant to demolish and re-build the existing bridge deck, and to allow residents safe access to their homes whilst the works are being carried out,” a spokesperson told us.

“These temporary traffic lights will be up 24hrs-a-day but will be under manual control during peak times – 7-9am and 3:30-18:30pm – to help manage the build-up of queues.

“However some delay in journey time between Newtown and Welshpool is inevitable.  The traffic lights will be removed ahead of Easter weekend but will go up again after.”

The existing stone and timber deck will be removed and replaced by a concrete deck with new steel beams. The brick parapets will be refurbished, and all ironwork cleaned and re-painted.

The site lies within an environmentally sensitive area, with European Protected Species Luronium Natans (commonly known as Floating Water Plantain) present within the canal. The Grade II listed bridge will be encapsulated to prevent harm to the surrounding area.

A lightweight bridge deck has been designed to allow the existing abutments and cast-iron beams to be retained, maintaining the bridge’s heritage value.

Works are scheduled for completion mid-April.

PICTURE: There may be trouble ahead... courtesy of Google Street View