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Ancient bridge faces closure due to extreme heat
21 Jun
Summary
- Historic Wye Bridge, built in 1816, may close due to temperature changes.
- Extreme heat forecasted for Chepstow could make the bridge unsafe.
- The bridge was previously closed for months due to structural cracks.
A 210-year-old bridge linking Wales and England, the Wye Bridge in Chepstow, is at risk of closing once more due to temperature variations. This Grade-I listed structure, dating back to 1816, previously shut to motorists in October of last year and to pedestrians and cyclists in March of this year because of cracks in its structural beams.
Engineers have highlighted the bridge's "sensitivity to temperature change and load," necessitating potential closures if temperatures exceed 30C or drop below -3C. With extreme heat predicted for western Europe, including Chepstow, the bridge's safety is being closely monitored by the local authority. Councillor Peter Strong emphasized the bridge's historical significance and the desire to keep it open for pedestrians, while prioritizing safety.
Residents are currently using a different bridge, the Wye Bridge on the A48, for cross-border travel, impacting access to local services. The closure has caused community frustration and disappointment for tourists visiting Chepstow Castle, who are drawn to the iconic structure. Meanwhile, forecasts indicate a severe heatwave across southern England and Wales, with temperatures potentially breaking historical records and prompting widespread weather warnings across Europe.
