A Bridge Too Few

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For some months now, Telford's magnificent bridge across the Menai Strait, the original permanent crossing between Ynys Môn and the mainland, has been closed, due to structural issues involving the hangers on the main span. Only foot traffic is currently permitted, throwing all vehicle traffic at the only other crossing available: the Britannia Bridge further towards Caernarfon. This means not just local traffic to and from the island, but the main trunk between Ireland and Europe via the port of Holyhead: the A55. Unfortunately, when the road crossing was added to the newly rebuilt Britannia about forty-some years ago, the traffic load it was predicted to deal with was a woeful underestimate of today's reality, and its two lanes - at both ends converging from four - are simply unable to cope adequately, particularly at the times of Irish ferry sailings and dockings.

Jane, Irene and I went to do a bit of shopping in Bangor this morning, and decided to head for the Anglesey Arms in Menai Bridge for a pint and a bite to eat afterwards. No issues getting onto the island, but the queues on the other side of the bridge were ominous. Nevertheless, we ploughed on and had a pleasant hour's conversation over nibbles and John Willie Lee's Manchester Lager. It took us an hour to travel the couple of miles back across the bridge. Could be interesting when the summer season kicks in this year...


Comments

  1. Anonymous3 January 2023 at 19:10

    Should've parked and walked acroos like I do mate:)

    ReplyDelete

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