WIREDGOV

Vital work to replace joints in the Glan Conwy Viaduct at junction 19 on the A55 has been rescheduled to the end of the month.

Over the past 30 years, it is estimated that over 370 million vehicles have passed over these bridge joints since the opening of the viaduct in 1991. The large expansion joints at the eastern end of the bridge are now worn out and must be replaced.

Due to start 15 January the joints are now to make their way towards the construction site in the next two weeks, with work expected to begin on Friday 29 January. To keep road users and the workforce safe, the viaduct above junction 19 could be closed for up to two weeks with traffic being diverted via the roundabout and slip roads below.

The joints needed for the work were unavoidably delayed before arriving at Felixstowe port and have since been affected by ongoing issues in the port.

The project might still coincide with the current period of lockdown, where Welsh Government regulations require people to stay at home as much as possible, only making essential journeys.

This project is part of a larger expansion joint renewal programme. Following the completion of this scheme, work will begin on the A5 River Ceiriog Viaduct on Monday 22 February and on the A55 Goat Inn Viaduct (junction 15 to 16) on Friday 5 March. However, should there be any further delays, these dates will be subject to change also.

Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales Ken Skates added:

Following the suspension of projects on our road network over Christmas and New Year, we now need to press ahead with important work to maintain the safety of the A55.

We have to carry out these essential renewals to the Glan Conwy Bridge near junction 19 on the A55. They are programmed to last up to two weeks. As delays are possible I would urge you to plan any essential journeys carefully and visit the Traffic Wales website for the latest information.

The large expansion joints at the eastern end of the bridge have reached the end of their operational life and must be replaced urgently to ensure motorists’ safety and to avoid the need for an emergency closures.

We don’t carry out planned full closures of carriageways unless absolutely necessary, but the safety of the travelling public is paramount and this work needs to take place to ensure that.

The dedicated team will be working in shifts 24 hours a day, and we urge motorists to bear with us. Please stay on the A55 and avoid local roads to ensure traffic can flow as freely as possible.

More information can be found on the planned works on the Traffic Wales website. There are also hints and tips on car health checks under the motorists section: How to Stay Safe On the Road

Follow Traffic Wales on Twitter: @TrafficWalesN and @TrafficWalesS.