THE proposed Dyfi Bridge on the A487 north of Machynlleth, has been given the go ahead by the Welsh Government.

The £46m scheme will improve road safety, strengthen links between communities, provide active travel opportunities and build resilience against flooding, as well as improve transport connectivity to help stimulate further economic development.

The current narrow stone Dyfi Bridge was built in the 19th and has poor visibility and no footways. The river Dyfi frequently floods, severing communities on either side of the bridge.

The development will be a viaduct across the floodplain and a river bridge across the Afon Dyfi approximately 480m upstream of the existing bridge.

The scheme will include traffic calming and improved drainage on the A493 immediately north of the bridge to protect the existing cottages, and there will be a flood bund constructed to protect the Dyfi Eco Park from river flooding.

The removal of large scale traffic from the 19th century bridge and provision of a walking and cycle path will improve active travel opportunities increasing the attraction of Machynlleth and surrounding area as a tourist destination.

Ken Skates, Minister for the economy and transport, said: “The A487 is a key route between North and South Wales linking Gwynedd, Powys, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. It is also an important local route providing access to the amenities and services of Machynlleth.

“It is clear to me action needs to be taken to improve this section of the A487 so that there is a safe and reliable route linking the communities around Machynlleth, including better and more reliable access to bus and train services in the town.

“Tourism is important for the Dyfi Valley and the removal of heavy traffic from the existing listed stone bridge allows for more walking and cycling opportunities which will be excellent not only for local people but for tourists too.”

The next stage will include detailed design works and further ground investigation work. Construction could begin in Summer 2020, subject to the statutory process, with completion by Summer 2022.