Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies has written to the Welsh Government’shistoric environment service,CADW, in a bid to facilitate the best way forward following the loss of the Grade II listed Llanerch Bridge during Storm Christoph last week.
The bridge, which was built in the 1800s and links Trefnant and Tremeirchion, collapsed and was washed away on Wednesday night.
James has visited the sitewith Tremeirchion ward county councillor Christine Marston and Cabinet lead member forWaste, Transport and the Environment, Cllr Brian Jones and has spoken to the Senior Bridge Engineer at Denbighshire County Council about a replacement.
He has also raised the matter with the UK Government minister with responsibility for floods, Rebecca Pow.
In his letter to CADW, he states;
“This was a hump-back bridge of character which was loved by the community and served a vital purpose in linking the villages of Trefnant and Tremeirchion. Clearly it is important that the crossing be reinstated and that this is achieved via a design and finish sympathetic to its surroundings.
“There are many who would wish to see the bridge replaced like-for-like, although I appreciate that the new structure will need to take into account the challenges posed by modern-day and projected river flows.
“I am keen to help facilitate the best way forward and would be grateful for your advice. In particular, I wonder if you could clarify the standing of the listed status of a collapsed structure?”
Cllr Marston said:
“The loss of this bridge which has been such a landmark feature in the area for so very many years is truly devastating and the focus must now be on getting it reinstated.
“Denbighshire County Council officers have carried out an initial assessment but further work is required and discussions are underway with both the Welsh and UK Governments. Cordons and diversions are in place and hopefully temporary measures can be implemented in the not too distant future.”
Storm Christoph also caused flooding across other parts of the Vale of Clwyd, including Rhyl, Dyserth and St Asaph..
James said:
“The storm hit the Vale of Clwyd hard, causing a great deal of angst for many residents and businesses. Thankfully Denbighshire County Council were fast to act and had teams out on the ground around the clock to deal with issues and I thank all those involved in the operation.”
