Work completed on ‘icon of civil engineering’

Major engineering works on an iconic suspension bridge have been completed, ensuring its safety and preserving its legacy ahead of a milestone anniversary.

Hull-based Spencer Bridge Engineering has finished the latest round of refurbishment works on the world-famous Menai Suspension Bridge, a vital road link between mainland Wales and the Isle of Anglesey. The team replaced and painted 168 wire rope hangers, addressing safety concerns that led to its closure in October 2022.

Opened in 1826, the Grade I listed bridge, designed by the brilliant civil engineer Thomas Telford, is the world’s second-oldest suspension bridge still carrying traffic.

Spencer Bridge Engineering has been revitalising the structure over the past four years, including earlier projects like replacing footpath panels and installing emergency failsafes in readiness for the crossing’s bicentenary.

The latest phase, completed on schedule despite adverse weather and supply chain challenges, highlights the firm’s expertise in preserving historic infrastructure while respecting its heritage.

Project Manager Tom Inglis said: “The project posed a number of significant challenges, including working in a harsh environment with strong winds and wet weather, but we have a large and diverse skillset which enables us to draw on past experiences to develop solutions.

“We have decades of experience working on a range of complex bridge and infrastructure projects, and with a very collaborative attitude, allowing us to utilise expertise from right across the team to deliver the most efficient and effective results.

“One of the factors which made this project so successful was the close relationships we have developed over a number of years with the client, UK Highways A55 Limited, and our suppliers.

“Those relationships were especially important to deliver this challenging project on time.”

A spokesperson for UK Highways A55 Ltd added: “The Menai Suspension Bridge is an icon of civil engineering and a beloved part of local and national heritage.

“The completion of the hanger replacement programme to schedule is a significant achievement and we are proud to have completed these works thanks to the outstanding leadership of Spencer Bridge Engineering.”

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