Welsh government announces plans for new Menai bridge and M4 changes

The Welsh government has announced plans to reduce traffic congestion in north and south Wales, BBC News reported on October 6. The proposals include building a new bridge across the Menai Strait and potentially closing or partially closing three junctions on the M4 in Newport by 2028. North Wales Live and Wales Online also reported on the government announcement regarding the new Menai Strait crossing. [1][3][4]

Ministers are launching an 18-month project to examine road options for the M4, which could involve building a new motorway or expanding the Brynglas Tunnels, according to BBC News. However, a review warned that closing the M4 junctions could increase noise and traffic on alternative routes. BBC News noted that funding mechanisms for the proposed projects remain unclear. [1]

A third Menai crossing has previously been proposed to carry the A55 dual carriageway and replace the current A55 Britannia Bridge, connecting the Isle of Anglesey with mainland Wales. [7]