Chaos as Menai Bridge shuts three times in two days

Traffic chaos hit Anglesey this week after the Menai Suspension Bridge was forced to close three times in just over 24 hours following suspected breaches of vehicle weight restrictions. The bridge, which links the island with mainland north Wales, has been limited to vehicles under 7.5 tonnes since repair works began in October, 2022. The repeated bridge closures came during the busy Urdd Eisteddfod period, leading to major tailbacks and disruption for motorists. The first closure happened on Tuesday morning after a suspected overweight vehicle crossed the bridge, prompting a safety inspection before it re-opened later in the day. Further disruption followed on Wednesday when the bridge closed at midday after another suspected breach. It re-opened briefly before shutting again at around 1.30pm while engineers carried out additional precautionary inspections. The crossing re-opened later in the afternoon. Drivers were forced to turn around as road closure signs and traffic cones blocked access to the historic crossing, which is one of only two road links between Anglesey and the mainland. Isle of Anglesey County Council and Gwynedd Council apologised for the disruption. They reiterated to motorists that the restrictions remained in place for safety reasons. The bridge, designed by Thomas Telford and opened in 1826, is due to celebrate its 200th anniversary next January. However, further structural problems discovered during ongoing repair works mean construction activity is expected to continue until 2027. In a statement, a Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We understand the frustration caused by the closures of the Menai bridge during this busy time and are doing everything we can to minimise disruption. "Only vehicles under 7.5 tonnes may use the Menai Bridge. Following recent breaches, traffic lights will now be in operation on the bridge from this evening (May 27) and for the duration of Urdd Eisteddfod. Operatives will turn away vehicles which are over the weight limit. Those who fail to comply will be referred to the police, and we will increase police and Welsh Government Traffic Officer presence to support compliance. "We would urge members of the public to respect those working on the bridge and to follow their instructions. "Improving resilience across the Menai Strait remains a key priority for Welsh Government as part of our wider transport and economic ambitions." North Wales Police said officers had been carrying out visibility patrols in the area during peak traffic periods. Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here . We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice