MACHYNLLETH residents are fed up with the “interminable delay” in starting work on the planned new Dyfi Bridge, a local councillor has said.

Michael Williams said people had been left “appalled” at the lack of progress on the much-anticipated scheme, with the Welsh Government still considering responses to draft orders and yet to decide whether a public inquiry is needed.

In a letter to Transport Minister Ken Skates, seen by the Cambrian News, Cllr Williams said it was vital that progress was made on the scheme.

He said: “I am writing to you to urge that, given the complete frustration felt by a great many of my constituents, a statement be made about a meaningful date of start for works to provide the new Dyfi Bridge and associated works.

“When completed, the scheme will ensure that Machynlleth will continue to provide a strong local economy and sense of wellbeing, serving the local communities and visitors/tourists.

“There can be no doubt whatsoever that Machynlleth needs this long overdue structural improvement.”

Cllr Williams added: “The A487 is a seriously important part of the Welsh north-south and east-west trunk road network.

“The existing bridge, which was built in 1805, is an obvious pinch point in the network.

“Clearly, then, the bridge was not designed to carry the volume and type of heavy traffic that is seen in today’s day and age.

“Dyfi Bridge continues to be struck on a regular basis, including a number of times in recent weeks.

“All townspeople have seen over the years is damage, damage and more damage, leaving them appalled at what they see as nothing but interminable delay to provide the new bridge and associated works.”

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We have consulted closely with land owners, Gwynedd Council, Powys Council, Network Rail, interested parties and statutory bodies on plans for a new section on the A487 north of Machynlleth, including a new bridge across the River Dyfi.

“We are in the final stages of this process following the publication of draft orders last year and a decision on whether a public local inquiry is required will be taken before the end of the year.”

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