A planning application to build a new bridge crossing the Montgomery Canal at Llanymynech has been submitted to Powys County Council.

The plans would see a new bridge to carry Carreghofa Lane over the Montgomery Canal, as well as removing the existing crossing. It would also see Carreghofa Lane realigned and given a new junction with the B4398.

The proposal also includes plans to re-align the canal and towpath, and to improve the play area car park, as well as laying out of new public open space north of the canal together with landscaping.

The application has been prepared on behalf of Canal & River Trust in Wales, who are working in partnership with Powys County Council to restore the Montgomery Canal after securing funding through the Levelling Up Fund.

As part of this funding package, the Trust have received funding for the construction of a new bridge in Llanymynech, replacing the existing No. 93 bridge along the canal, which is “no longer suitable for modern vehicular traffic”.

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The proposal says: “The proposed development comprises the construction of a re-aligned section of Carreghofa Lane, a new road bridge crossing the canal, and a new junction arrangement.

“The scheme forms part of the Montgomery Canal Restoration Project and once complete, will maintain unrestricted access for vehicles and other road users via Carreghofa Lane, removing the current at grade canal crossing.

"The development facilitates the uninterrupted movement of vessels on the canal.

(Image: NQ)

“Walls Bridge (Bridge 93) was the original crossing to the Montgomery Canal which was closed to vehicular traffic many years ago. It was replaced by the at grade crossing which blocks the canal at this point.

“It is located to the southwest of the new bridge location and will continue to be available for pedestrians and cyclists only.

“The use of a box culvert design provides the necessary crossing whilst addressing the constraints which exist and is considered to be a simple and functional solution.

“The design will provide sufficient headroom for boats and towpath users to pass underneath, while also carrying a modern carriageway above.”

It concludes by adding: “Overall, this is a positive proposal which seeks to deliver a scheme which is specifically supported in the local plan.

"The potential impacts have been fully assessed and no harm identified which cannot be suitably mitigated. The proposed development is fully in accordance with relevant policies within the development plan.”