River Severn pedestrian bridge oves closer for villagers

Progress has been confirmed on long-standing plans for a new pedestrian footbridge in Caersws, aimed at improving safety for people crossing the River Severn.

The update was given in the Senedd earlier this month, where Russell George pressed the Welsh Government for clarity on the scheme, which has been discussed for more than a decade.

The proposed footbridge would provide a dedicated pedestrian crossing over the river, separating people on foot from traffic using the existing road bridge. The current arrangement has long been raised as a safety concern by residents and community representatives.

During questions to the Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates, Mr George asked for an update on both the footbridge and wider safety improvements in the area, including previously discussed works at the Moat Lane junction.

Responding, the Cabinet Secretary confirmed that plans for the Caersws footbridge are well advanced and that officials from the Welsh Government and Powys County Council are due to meet later this month to coordinate the next steps. He acknowledged the length of time the project has taken to reach this stage and said he was keen to see progress move quickly.

“The next steps are to bring both project teams together. That’s due to take place this month,” Mr Skates said. “I’m keen to move at maximum pace on this piece of work, given that it has taken 10 years to reach this point.”

Speaking after the Senedd exchange, Mr George said it had been “incredibly frustrating” how long it had taken to see movement on the scheme, noting that it was ten years since he first met ministers at the bridge alongside community representatives.

“After a decade of campaigning with local residents, it’s encouraging to finally have confirmation that plans for the Caersws footbridge are moving forward, with officials meeting this month to take the next steps,” he said. “A proposed footbridge has always been about keeping people safe.”

He added that he would continue to push for momentum and regular updates, thanking Caersws Community Council and local county councillors for maintaining pressure on the issue.

The Transport Secretary also confirmed that the Welsh Government intends to begin a public consultation on safety options before Easter.

Local county councillor Les George welcomed the update but said work must now turn into action.

“This is positive news and well overdue,” he said. “We will keep up the pressure until we see diggers in the ground.”

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