PLANS for a new, wider footbridge over the River Conwy have been submitted.

Conwy County Borough Council has lodged its proposals with the Eryri National Park Authority which, if approved, would replace the Sappers Bridge, which was built in 1930 but has been closed since December 2021 following safety concerns.

The public right of way that links the bridge between Betws-y-Coed and the A470 has also been closed since the same date.

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The plans involve “a larger bridge of similar form and construction, a new path and ramp connecting the new bridge with the A470 Trunk Road, lighting along the path and bridge, and ancillary works”.

New stone foundations will be laid under the towers, which will be increased in height, and the bridge will be widened from 1.2m to 4m, improving access for cyclists, wheelchairs and pushchairs.

It would be of a similar design and construction to the existing suspension bridge, comprising ornate metalwork towers to the east and west of the River Conwy, with metal cables suspending the footbridge deck.

The footbridge’s surface would comprise a timber deck to match that of the existing bridge, while there will also be redesigned access to the bridge from Old Church Road to the west.

To the east of the river, the proposals comprise improvements of the public right of way that includes new surfacing, new field gates, a concrete culvert “sheep creep”, regraded earth works, and low retaining walls to assimilate the footpath within the existing landform.

To help users in darkness, there will be LED-illuminated handrails on the bridge, and lit bollards along the path.

A design and access statement, prepared for the council by The Environment Partnership, states: “The application is driven by the need for a replacement footbridge due to safety concerns with the current footbridge.

“The current footbridge has been closed because of these concerns, and it needs replacing with a new footbridge to restore the active travel link.

“This fulfils an important function in enabling access to everyday needs within the service centre of Betws-y-Coed without relying on the use of private car.

“Also, access to Betws-y-Coed as a visitor destination shall be improved. The development would give greater access to services, facilities and employment in Betws-y-Coed by sustainable transport whilst reducing trips by private motor vehicles.

“Sappers Bridge is in a very attractive setting. The new bridge shall be similar to the attractive design of the current bridge, therefore maintaining the attractive setting of local area.

“The current bridge is in a dilapidated condition and the replacement shall be in a much-improved condition.”

Welsh signage will be included as part of the development shall and shall be positioned so that it is likely to be read first.