We are looking to build a third bridge over the Menai Strait.
Overview
The roads review considered this project
This page reflects our previous road investment programme. A new programme was published in the national transport delivery plan.
We will publish new scheme webpages to reflect the new programme.
Why are we doing it
The A55 is important locally, nationally and internationally. It provides the main economic artery for North Wales and forms part of the route Euro 22 on the Trans European Road network. Britannia Bridge is the only section within the UK that is not dual carriageway, and this acts as a significant bottleneck to commuter and holiday traffic.
The aims of the scheme are to:
- improve capacity, reliability and journey times
- improve network resilience
- improve opportunities for non motorised users
- improve safety.
Current progress
A recent study concluded that improving capacity by introducing a three lane tidal flow configuration on the existing Britannia Bridge did not meet the required safety standards.
A Strategic Outline Business case was completed in Spring 2016 which confirmed the need for a 3rd Menai Crossing.
We have appointed consultants AECOM and RML to undertake a route selection study with a view to selecting a preferred route for the crossing.
We published the summary of responses for this consultation in October.
Timetable
Start Procuring Technical Advisors: Autumn 2016
Route Selection Study: Late 16 to Spring 18
Announcement of preferred route: Summer 2018
Next steps
We will appoint technical advisors to develop a preliminary design. The design looks at environmental and engineering issues in more detail. It also considers comments made during the consultation.
We will also carry out a detailed review to confirm the type of bridge and the selection of the two or four lane crossing.
How we are consulting
We held a public consultation between November 2007 and February 2008.
A 12 week public consultation on the options was undertaken between December 2017 and March 2018.