Llansanffraid bridge set to shut for 20 weeks for repairs

The work on Llansanffraid bridge will cost £500,000 and Powys council said the decision to shut the crossing temporarily had not been taken lightly

A Grade II-listed bridge is set to close to traffic for 20 weeks while work to repair and strengthen it is carried out.

But Powys council said there would be a safe route for pedestrians across the 18th Century crossing in Llansanffraid, near Welshpool.

The work will cost £500,000 and the authority said the decision to shut the bridge had not been taken lightly.

Repairs start on 24 June and diversions will be in place.

Barry Thomas, who is responsible for the environment and regulation in Powys council's cabinet, said: "The decision to close a bridge is never taken lightly because of the impact it has on local residents and businesses.

"But in this case we hope that the long-term benefits from the restoration of this attractive and historic bridge and removal of the 18 tonnes weight restriction will be appreciated.

"We hope to complete the work by early November 2013 but this is dependent on the weather during the autumn and winter months."