Work is underway to explore the potential of building a third Menai Strait crossing to improve access to and from Anglesey.

Welsh Economy and Infrastructure Secretary Ken Skates has met with interested parties today, 06 February, to discuss developing a preferred option for a new bridge.

The multi-million pound scheme would help alleviate capacity on the current Britannia Bridge.

Economy and Infrastructure Secretary Ken Skates said: "I have long been clear in my commitment to a third Menai crossing, and the obvious benefits it would bring to local communities and the economy. The current system is often at or over capacity and with major projects such as Wyfla Newydd in the pipeline it's imperative that we act quickly to look at how we can improve accessibility.

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"We've looked in detail at all possible solutions to the existing Britannia Bridge, from providing three narrow lanes with tidal flow on the existing bridge to moving the eastbound merge to smooth traffic flow. These options have been ruled out following significant safety issues identified in risk assessments and concerns raised by the emergency services.

"We are now developing a preferred option for a new bridge in consultation with interested parties to see what's possible. As part of this process, we continue to explore with the National Grid opportunities for a combined road and cable crossing – something which could provide added benefits to the scheme for all concerned."

(LM/MH)