Work set to start on new £46m bridge after floods
CONSTRUCTION of a £46m bridge to help prevent a community from being cut off by flooding is to begin.
The Welsh Government has announced that construction of the new Dyfi Bridge, near Machynlleth, will begin in March.
The current 19th-century bridge often has to be closed due to flooding, which affects people’s ability to access key services.
As a result, a viaduct across the floodplain and a river bridge across the Afon Dyfi will be constructed approximately 480m upstream of the existing bridge.
The original bridge will remain, and ministers hope the removal of traffic and the provision of a walking and cycle path will improve transport options and increase the appeal of the area as a tourist destination.
Transport Minister Ken Skates said: “As well as being a key route between north and south Wales, the A487 is an important link between communities.
“All too often these communities can find themselves isolated because of flooding at Dyfi Bridge.
“The new bridge will also make public transport more reliable, allowing people to access important services in Machynlleth and beyond.
“The existing listed 19th-century stone bridge will continue to be an important asset for the area as an active travel route.”
Contractor Alun Griffiths Ltd plans to appoint a graduate engineer and two local apprentices to work on the scheme.
Virtual jobs fairs and meet the buyer events will also be organised, and links set up with Ysgol Bro Hyddgen.
Alun Griffiths’ executive director Martyn Evans said: “We are delighted to be working with Welsh Government to deliver these important improvements to the A487, making the route more resilient and reliable during flooding events.
“The new viaduct across the Dyfi Valley will also help to preserve the long-term integrity of the existing Dyfi Bridge, which is a Grade II Scheduled Ancient Monument.
“Before works commence in March, we will be undertaking significant community engagement, explaining our plans and detailing how we will be minimising disruption to the local community.”
The scheme will also include traffic-calming and improved drainage on the A493 north of the bridge and a flood bund will be constructed to protect the Dyfi Eco Park from river flooding.
The new Dyfi Bridge is expected to be completed by spring 2023.