Next step taken in plans for new A494 River Dee crossing
Plans to build a replacement A494 River Dee Bridge have reached the next milestone with the publication of draft Orders.
The Orders are legal documents setting out the proposals in detail, including the chosen route, land that will need to be purchased and changes to existing roads.
Members of the public are being invited to give their views, with the option to formally support or object to the plans, or suggest alternatives.
The consultation opened today, Tuesday 30 September, and runs until Tuesday 11 November 2025.
The existing bridge, which carries thousands of vehicles daily between north Wales and north-west England, is in poor structural condition and requires replacement to maintain safety and resilience.
The new bridge will be built around 15 metres southeast of the current crossing, with two lanes of traffic in each direction and a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.
This option, known as Option E, was chosen following public consultation as the best balance of cost, environmental impact and practicality.
The replacement scheme also includes up to 3 kilometres of improved active travel routes, a new underbridge through the North Wales Coast Railway embankment for walking and cycling, upgrades to the A494, sustainable drainage systems and a new junction near Riverside.
Environmental improvements such as wildflower verges and woodland planting are planned as part of the project.
If approved, construction work is expected to start in May 2026 and run through early 2030. The existing bridge will remain open for much of the project to minimise disruption.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said: “Fixing our roads is a priority for this government and we are making progress with the plans for a replacement for the A494 Dee Bridge.
“I urge local people and people who use the bridge on a regular basis to take part in the consultation and have their say – we will listen carefully to people’s views.”
More information about the draft Orders will be available here gov.wales/a494-river-dee-
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