Road to close for up to 30 weeks

A road bridge connecting the villages of Llanymynech and Llansantffraid will be closed for up to 30 weeks from Monday.

Work to repair and strengthen the historic New Bridge over the River Vyrnwy on the B4398 between Pentreheylin and Carreghofa will be closed to all traffic Monday, May 14 so that repairs can be carried out on the Grade II listed structure.

A diversion route will be in place for both vehicles and pedestrians while the bridge is closed. For vehicles it will be via Four Crosses and Llanymynech and pedestrians will be directed via a short section of the B4390 and then along the Montgomery Canal towpath. 

The work, which is estimated to costs £500,000, will be carried out by specialist masons and will include the restoration of unusual masonry features which have fallen into disrepair.  All the works will be carried out in compliance with a Listed Building Consent from Cadw. 

When works are completed, the existing 7.5 tonnes weight restriction will be removed.

Cllr Phyl Davies, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “The decision to close a bridge is never taken lightly because of the impact it has on local residents and businesses.

"But in this case we hope that the long-term benefits from the restoration of this historic bridge and removal of the 7.5 tonnes weight restriction will be appreciated.

"We hope to complete the work later this year but this is dependent on favourable weather conditions.”