Opening of new Severn bridge delayed until next year

Further delays to the opening of a new bridge over the River Severn have been confirmed.

Work on the active travel bridge in Newtown will now continue into the New Year, according to Powys council.

The bridge structure was lifted into place over the River Severn back in June, when work commenced to install the bridge deck, construct the connecting paths and complete the surrounding landscaping and outside gym area.

However, the schedule for completion has now slipped while contractors wait for critical components that will form part of the safety barrier on each side of the bridge to be manufactured, tested and delivered from Switzerland.

Currently it is estimated that these will be available to be installed after Christmas.

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Opening date

Once this last part of the construction process has been completed, an opening date for the cycle and pedestrian bridge will be confirmed.

Funded by Welsh Government with support from Transport for Wales, the steel, single span, open arch structure will connect the riverside path, communities, businesses and amenities on the west of the River Severn to Pool Road on the east.

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Growing network

Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, says, “This project will add to the growing network of active travel routes throughout the county and will make it easier for the people of Newtown to make short journeys such as to work, school or the local shops, by bike or on foot, rather than having to get in the car.

“We would also like to thank the local community for their co-operation throughout this project. We know they are as eager as us to see the bridge finished and opened to the public as soon as possible.”