Answers to common questions about the Menai Suspension Bridge.
Contents
When will the bridge re-open?
The bridge has now reopened with a 7.5 tonne weight limit in both directions, following the completion of temporary works to address an issue with bolts on the bridge.
Inspections of the temporary works will take place every Wednesday at 10am and traffic will be managed on the bridge with stop/go signs at this time.
What vehicles can cross the bridge?
Vehicles up to 7.5 tonne will be allowed to cross the bridge in both directions.
Enforcement is in place to ensure that the 7.5 tonne weight limit is complied with. Failure to comply could result in prosecution and further bridge closures.
Can emergency vehicles travel over the Menai Suspension Bridge?
In normal conditions emergency vehicles will use the Britannia Bridge. However, if there are issues with Britannia Bridge, emergency services can use the Menai Suspension Bridge following special travel plans.
Why did the Menai Suspension Bridge temporarily close?
The Menai Suspension Bridge was closed to all traffic for essential work on the recommendation of engineers working for UK Highways A55 DBFO Ltd. A 3 tonne weight limit was put in place with the aim to keep the bridge open. Unfortunately, due to enforcement issues, the difficult decision was taken to temporarily close the bridge until a suitable traffic management plan can be developed.
The closure follows investigation work by UK Highways A55 DBFO Ltd underneath the bridge, which was carried out as part of the phase 2 work. The investigation showed some key bolts on the beams under the bridge needed replacement.
The bridge was partially re-opened with a 3 tonne weight limit.
The bridge has now reopened for vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes.
Why has this issue been found at this stage?
This issue has come about for the phase 2 works and identified by UK Highways A55 design team from the various analysis, investigations and inspections which is being undertaken for the next stage of works.
What is happening with phase 2 works?
Phase 2 works will include:
- painting the underdeck, parapets and bearing access
- repairing concrete corbels
- recalibrating the land saddle
- upgrading lighting
A temporary arrangement has been completed which will/has allow/allowed the bridge to re-open with a 7.5t weight restriction following completion of temporary works on the bolts under the bridge. Work on a permanent solution to this issue will take place in the coming weeks.
UK Highways A55 Ltd. are developing a programme of works for the Phase 2. Further updates on the progress of the Phase 2 programme of works on the bridge will be provided soon.
What happens if the Britannia Bridge is closed?
It is very uncommon for the A55 Britannia Bridge to close. If it does close, it is usually only for a few hours.
When there are high winds certain vehicle types are advised not to cross during certain conditions.
Following a strategy review, wind speed limits have been changed for some vehicle types. So the bridge should remain open to more vehicles, more often and any closure will be as short as possible. This has helped Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) to continue to cross the A55 Britannia Bridge during adverse weather events.
We are investigating stacking sites on both the mainland and Isle of Anglesey which should alleviate the situation during a full closure of the Britannia Bridge for HGVs.
In the event of closure of the Britannia Bridge, North Wales Police will help provide assistance to coordinate the use of Menai Suspension Bridge for vehicles weighing less than 3 tonne.
What happened during phase 1?
The phase 1 works to replace the bridge hangers started on 4 September 2023 and were completed in October 2024.
Who is carrying out the work?
The work is being carried out by UK Highways A55 Ltd, which operates and maintains the bridge on behalf of the Welsh Government.
Why did the Menai Suspension Bridge close in October 2022?
Following the planned maintenance and recommendations identified from the Principal Inspection Report 2019 to refurbish the paint system on the suspension bridge, further detailed technical analysis was undertaken. A potential issue with the bridge span hangers was identified.
As a result of further modelling, serious risks were identified and structural engineers recommended closing the bridge immediately to all traffic.
What support is available for businesses?
Businesses are encouraged to access support via our dedicated Business Wales service: Business Wales: supporting businesses in Wales.
Many smaller businesses already qualify for 100% rates relief in Menai Bridge and pay no non-domestic rates. During the phase 1 works, Isle of Anglesey County Council identified 30 additional Menai Bridge businesses that were eligible for rates relief under the retail, leisure and hospitality rates relief scheme. The Council invited those businesses to apply.
If you think your business might be eligible for rates relief please contact Isle of Anglesey County Council to discuss further. Further contact information, including application forms is available at Isle of Anglesey County Council: Retail, leisure and hospitality rates relief scheme.
Businesses which are liable for non-domestic rates may be eligible to apply to the Valuation Office Agency for a temporary reduction in rateable value. To find out more, go to: GOV.UK: Find a business rates valuation.