Traffic management will be introduced on the Menai Suspension Bridge later this month to allow permanent repairs to critical crossbeams, prompting fresh disruption for motorists and commuters on the vital link between Anglesey and the mainland.

From 19 February for around eight days, a tidal flow system will operate on the historic crossing as engineers carry out essential work.

Under the temporary arrangements, traffic will be allowed to travel from Anglesey to the mainland between 7am and 1pm, and from the mainland to Anglesey between 1pm and 7pm, while normal traffic signals remain in place overnight.

The Menai Bridge has been at the centre of prolonged maintenance and repair programmes, with ongoing Phase 2 works originally scheduled to finish last year but now expected to continue until spring 2027.

Earlier in the programme, the historic structure — a key transport artery for residents, businesses and emergency services in North Wales — was subject to weight limits and closures.

In October 2025 it was temporarily shut after inspections identified bolts on key beams that needed replacing, disrupting travel and forcing vehicles to use the nearby Britannia Bridge instead. In late October, the bridge reopened fully to two-way traffic under a 7.5-tonne weight limit, though inspections and traffic controls continued.

Welsh Government and UK Highways A55 officials say the revised Phase 2 programme has been redesigned to significantly reduce the need for traffic management and closures, compared with earlier plans, in order to lessen the impact on residents, commuters and businesses. However, the latest tidal flow system is likely to cause delays at peak times and require careful planning by those who use the crossing regularly.

The 7.5-tonne weight limit remains in force to ensure the safe operation of the bridge while works continue, and motorists are reminded to comply to avoid further disruption.

Local drivers and freight operators have previously expressed frustration when access was restricted or halted, with earlier closures in 2022 and 2025 causing significant detours and pressure on alternative routes.

Officials say emergency services will continue to be able to use the bridge if needed, and the tidal flow system is only temporary while the specific crossbeam repairs are carried out. They thanked the public for their patience and cooperation as the work progresses.