DRIVERS on the Llyn are facing extended travel times for the foreseeable future after a major bridge was closed following a collision over the weekend.

The A497 is the main thoroughfare for traffic travelling along the Llyn Peninsula between Pwllheli and Nefyn, but motorists now face an eight-mile diversion for the foreseeable future after a collision on Pont Bodfan in Boduan caused ‘severe damage’ to a large section of an old stone bridge.

Surveyors from Gwynedd Council were quick to close the Grade II listed, three span masonry arch bridge, on Saturday morning, after part of the bridge collapsed.

The section of the road has since been cordoned off to prevent vehicles from passing over the damaged structure.

Further concerns are now being raised after several large cracks appeared in the tarmac next to where it had crumbled away.

Local councillor Anwen Davies said: “From what I can gather there was a collision on the bridge and that’s caused the damage.

“I am so grateful no-one was hurt or killed and that the council were so quick to contact the community to let them know the bridge was unsafe.”

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