Machynlleth campaign for new Dyfi crossing

The bridge on the A487 was again hit by localised flooding last month

A campaign has been launched to replace a 200-year-old Grade II-listed bridge in Powys with a new crossing.

Dyfi bridge, near Machynlleth, is hit by localised flooding and has also been damaged by vehicles.

The South Meirionnydd Older People's Forum has launched a petition calling for a new crossing.

The Welsh Assembly Government said a number of options were being considered, including a new bridge and reducing the impact of flooding.

Part of a side wall was knocked down by a lorry in June last year, the latest in a long line of incidents, forcing the closure of the bridge to trucks for several weeks. It was also closed last month during heavy rain.

Since the accident there have been calls by local people for a replacement, but a campaign has now been launched.

It has been supported by Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates.

He said the petition would be presented to the Welsh assembly's petitions committee in two weeks' time.

He added: "Closure of the Dyfi bridge causes huge disruption to individuals and businesses and I am concerned that this historic piece of architecture continues to be eroded by heavy transport and floods.

"It is high time for the Welsh government to look seriously at the urgent need to construct a new bridge and invest in improving the highway at Glandyfi."

An assembly government spokesman said several options were being considered.

He said: "We are currently investigating a range of options for improving the condition of the A487 as well as exploring measures to reduce the impact of flooding.

"Options being considered at the Afon (River) Dyfi crossing include widening and strengthening the existing bridge as well as providing a new structure."

He added that officials were finalising a report, and talks would be held with the historic monuments agency, Cadw.