A55 viaduct joint replacement work to start

Work is due to start on the A55 in Wales to replace joints on the Glan Conwy Viaduct at Junction 19.

To keep road users and the workforce safe, the Viaduct above Junction 19 could be closed for up to two weeks while the project is being completed.

The newly installed traffic signals at junction 19 will be adjusted to balance flows and queues on all legs of the junction 19 roundabout with the aim of minimising the total disruption and congestion on the A55, the A470 and all intersecting local roads, according to Business Live.

Work had been due to start this week but the joints needed for the work were unavoidably delayed before arriving at Felixstowe port and have since been affected by on-going issues in the port.

The project is expected to begin on Friday January 29 and may coincide with a continued lockdown in Wales – although Welsh Government are warning drivers to prepare for delays. 

The Welsh Government said it was vital work with an estimated 370,000,000 vehicles having passed over these bridge joints since the opening of the viaduct in 1991.

The large expansion joints at the eastern end of the bridge are now worn out and must be replaced. This project is part of a larger expansion joint renewal programme.

Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales Ken Skates added: “Following the suspension of projects on our road network over Christmas and New Year, we now need to press ahead with important work to maintain the safety of the A55.

“We have to carry out these essential renewals to the Glan Conwy Bridge near junction 19 on the A55. They are programmed to last up to two weeks. As delays are possible I would urge you to plan any essential journeys carefully and visit the Traffic Wales website for the latest information.

“The large expansion joints at the eastern end of the bridge have reached the end of their operational life and must be replaced urgently to ensure motorists’ safety and to avoid the need for an emergency closures. We don’t carry out planned full closures of carriageways unless absolutely necessary, but the safety of the travelling public is paramount.”

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