After years of damage having been caused to Pont Fawr in Llanrwst, and increasing concerns by residents about the bridge’s use, Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, has written to Conwy County Borough Council asking for an investigation into the existing traffic control system.

Janet said:

“Pont Fawr is an asset to Aberconwy.

“In addition to this seventeenth century bridge being a major attraction and one of Wales’ iconic locations, it provides an essential route across the Conwy River to the west of the Conwy Valley.

“With the alternatives for getting to communities such as Trefriw, Llanrhychwyn, and Dolgarrog, being the single track bridge 5 miles south in Betws-y-Coed, and the B5279 in Tal-y-Cafn, I am unsurprised that the bridge sees extensive use.

“More so, it is reasonable to foresee even more vehicles trying to make the crossing, especially given that it provides access to top tourist attractions, such as Gwydir Castle and Gardens, the Marin Trail, and Surf Snowdonia.

“Evidently, for such an important road to have a single track bridge is never going to be ideal. However, there is a possibility that the situation could be better managed.

“When considering that the main issues include the notorious Mexican standoffs and the dangers of reversing when cars meet on the bridge, there is a clear step to take.

“I have now written to Conwy County Borough Council asking for a review of the current traffic control system so to ensure that it has the most effective arrangement in place”.

ENDS

Document

Letter to Mr Geraint Edwards, Head of Environment, Roads, & Facilities, Conwy County Borough Council.

Notes:

Video captures Mexican standoff on town's narrow bridge in traffic battle