New Sappers Bridge river crossing under construction
Proposed design
Work is beginning on providing a replacement bridge to cross the Afon Conwy by Betws y Coed railway station, Conwy County Borough Council has announced.
Following public consultation on different options, the chosen design is a 50-metre-long suspension bridge with two ornate towers, in the style of the historic bridge. The new bridge will be accessible and wide enough for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users, prams and mobility scooters.
The work will also include improved paths either side of the bridge to Old Church Road and the A470. The Council is working with Welsh Government to widen the existing path on the verge of the A470 for 800 metres, from where the bridge path meets the A470 along to Rhyd-y-Creuau field studies centre.
The main design and construction work is funded by a grant from UK Government, with funding from Welsh Government for the work on the A470.
The old Sappers Bridge closed just before Christmas 2021 due to safety concerns. A structural review revealed that there were significant issues with the bridge, built in 1930, including with the timber deck, steel suspension cables, towers, and foundations.
Restrictions to protect fish during spawning season mean work on the bridge construction will be in two phases – from April to October 2025, and then from April 2026. The bridge and connecting path are expected to be ready for use in summer 2026.
Old Church Road will be closed at times to allow for work on the bridge foundations and new path. Where possible, contractors will work with traffic lights during the day and road closures at night.
The work is being carried out by MWT Civil Engineering, based in Colwyn Bay.
Cllr Goronwy Edwards, Cabinet Member for Environment, Roads and Facilities – Infrastructure, said: “We’re pleased to be able to start work on the new bridge at Betws y Coed. The modern design will allow everyone to enjoy crossing the river, a benefit to locals and visitors. We’d like to thank residents and businesses for their patience while the work is carried out.”
Posted on 25/04/2025