Bridge restrictions 'deeply frustrating' - minister

Thursday, 28 May 2026 18:25

By MônFM Newsroom

Senedd Cymru

The new transport minister says people have been "let down for too long" over the resilience of the two Menai crossings.

Extra measures have been introduced on the Menai Suspension Bridge following three unauthorised crossings in just two days by overweight vehicles.

Police and traffic officers are now patrolling the bridge and any vehicles over the 7.5 tonne limit will be turned away - with traffic lights also in place for the remaider of the Urdd National Eisteddfod, which finishes at Mona on Friday.

On Wednesday, the Welsh Government urged drivers to follow the weight restrictions and warned anyone caught failing to comply will be reported to police.

Mark Hooper, the deputy minister for transport, said: "Recent restrictions on the Menai Bridge have been deeply frustrating, particularly during such an important week for Ynys Môn and across Wales, with the Urdd Eisteddfod taking place."

"We reiterate that only vehicles under 7.5 tonnes may use the bridge. Following recent breaches, traffic lights will operate for the duration of the Urdd Eisteddfod."

"Overweight vehicles will be turned away, with non-compliance referred to the police. We have increased police and Welsh Government traffic officer presence to ensure safety and keep the crossing open."

"We urge the public to respect those working on the bridge and follow their instructions."

"People in Ynys Môn and across north Wales have been let down for too long when it comes to the resilience of the Menai crossings. This new Welsh Government will act with greater urgency and focus."

"We have already begun work within government, with a view to ensuring short-term measures and long-term solutions for resilience across the Menai Strait. We will be setting out our plans for this shortly."

"Communities on both sides of the Strait deserve reliable connections, and we are determined to provide them."

Ongoing maintenance work on the Menai Suspension Bridge is now expected to continue until at least next year, despite a pledge from former transport minister Ken Skates that it would be completed in time for the 200th anniversary in February.

A Welsh Labour spokesperson told MônFM: "During our time in government, extensive work was carried out to maintain and refurbish the Menai Suspension Bridge, where the safety and structural integrity of the bridge was a core concern."

"We have always been clear about the pressing need to develop solutions to improve the resilience of transport links across the Menai Strait and will continue to hold the new Welsh Government to account over these issues."

Urdd Eisteddfod organisers said they are aware of the restrictions on Menai Bridge and advise anyone planning to travel to Mona on Friday to allow plenty of time for their journey and keep an eye on the traffic situation.

A spokesperson added that any competitors who are delayed because of traffic restrictions should contact the Eisteddfod office on 0345 257 1613 or email eisteddfod@urdd.org

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