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Menai Suspension Bridge Remains Closed After Bolt Defects as Welsh Government Seeks Enforceable Reopening Plan

Degraded bolts found in inspection mean the crossing stays shut pending enforceable weight controls.

Overview

  • The bridge is closed to all vehicles on engineers’ advice after defective bolts were identified under the deck during phase two works, though pedestrians and cyclists can still cross.
  • Transport Secretary Ken Skates has demanded a progress update by the end of October 6 on a robust traffic management and enforcement plan to enable a safe reopening.
  • UK Highways A55 DBFO Ltd is developing a bolt‑replacement programme, and underdeck painting, corbel repairs and lighting upgrades are paused until the bolts are replaced.
  • Local political leaders say the shutdown is expected to last weeks and are pressing for a timetable and a car‑only reopening enforced by measures such as ANPR cameras.
  • Emergency access normally uses the Britannia Bridge, and North Wales Police will coordinate use of the Menai crossing for vehicles under three tonnes if the A55 route is disrupted.