The Welsh Government has confirmed it will begin looking at detailed options for a third crossing over the Menai Strait, a move welcomed by Bangor Conwy Môn MS Mair Rowlands.
Speaking in the Senedd during a statement on transport infrastructure resilience, Deputy Minister for Transport Mark Hooper said the Welsh Government would pursue both immediate measures and longer-term solutions to improve resilience across the Menai Strait.
He told Members:
“Looking at the longer term, we will now start looking at detailed options for a third Menai crossing, building on the work already undertaken.”
The announcement comes after months of disruption caused by repeated closures of the Menai Suspension Bridge, with the Welsh Government acknowledging growing frustration among residents, businesses and commuters on both sides of the Strait.
Responding to the statement, Mair Rowlands MS welcomed what she described as a renewed commitment to finding a long-term solution.
“I’m grateful to the Minister for his statement, and I’m also grateful to him for meeting with Elfed Williams MS and I earlier today to discuss this matter which affects so many people in Bangor Conwy Môn,” she said.
“It’s so positive to see the new government recognising the scale of the problem and taking immediate steps to put long-term solutions, such as a third bridge, back on the table.”
During the Senedd debate, Mair Rowlands also pressed the Deputy Minister on what discussions he intends to have with the UK Government about potential funding contributions, highlighting the strategic importance of transport links to and from Ynys Môn.
She pointed to major developments including the Anglesey Freeport and the proposed revival of the Wylfa nuclear project as reasons why improved connectivity will be essential for the region’s future economic growth.
The plans mark a significant shift in policy. Previous proposals for a third Menai crossing were shelved under the former Welsh Labour administration, but the new Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government has now confirmed the option will once again be considered as part of a wider review of transport resilience in North Wales.
The Deputy Minister said the Menai crossings operate as a single system, with restrictions or closures on either bridge having a significant impact across the region. Alongside exploring a third crossing, the Welsh Government is also progressing recommendations for wind deflectors on the Britannia Bridge and improvements to traffic management on the A55.
While no timetable or preferred option has yet been announced, the commitment to examine detailed proposals for a third crossing is likely to be welcomed by many communities and businesses who have faced years of uncertainty and disruption linked to the Menai Strait crossings.
