New lift bridge approved to restore Montgomery Canal navigation near Llanymynech in Powys
Powys Council approved a new lift bridge for the Montgomery Canal near Llanymynech, with construction expected to start in early 2027 to aid restoration.
Powys County Council has granted planning permission for a new lift bridge carrying the B4398 over the Montgomery Canal near Llanymynech. This development marks a significant step towards reopening the historic waterway to boats after decades of obstruction.
The new structure will replace a flat road crossing built almost at water level following the removal of the former Williams Bridge in 1980. Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales, expects construction to begin in early 2027. The B4398 will require a temporary closure during the works, with a signed diversion in place for motorists.
Richard Harrison, principal project manager at Glandŵr Cymru, said: “Securing planning permission for the new Williams Bridge is a major step forward for the Montgomery Canal restoration.” Reinstating a navigable crossing at this location will help reconnect the waterway while ensuring the canal continues to provide benefits for local communities, visitors and wildlife.
The bridge is part of a UK Government-funded project to restore a four-mile section between Llanymynech and Maerdy. Councillor Glyn Preston, Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “It’s also crucial that extensive ecological surveys have been completed to ensure that biodiversity will be protected, keeping wildlife safe while restoring a valuable asset for locals and visitors to enjoy.”
John Dodwell, chair of the Montgomery Canal Partnership, added: “The rebuilding of Williams Bridge brings us another step closer to restoring a fully navigable waterway between Welshpool and Llanymynech.” He noted the canal supports both wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.
The 33-mile Montgomery Canal stretches from Frankton Junction in Shropshire to Newtown. Authorised by Parliament in 1794, it was formally abandoned in 1944 after railway competition and a breach near Frankton Junction. Restoration efforts have gathered momentum since a 1969 volunteer “Big Dig” at Welshpool.
Eli Nathan
Eli Nathan covers Wales news, politics, community stories, and sports for The National Wales (thenational.wales).
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