What action is the Welsh Government taking to address concerns about the Welsh Government’s A494 River Dee Bridge project, and in particular the suggestions that the bridge will carry cables across the river, rather than pylons, and the impact his will have on timescales for completion?
As part of the project there is a requirement to divert existing overhead 132kV power cables. Discussions are ongoing with Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) who are identifying and evaluating diversion options. The existing primary high voltage conductor route that is impacting on the project is located near the Chester to Holyhead rail line and the required diversion does not cross the River Dee at the bridge location. A preferred diversion route has yet to be determined. Both underground and overhead diversion options are currently under consideration and the time impact on the delivery of the A494 scheme is something that will be a key component in deciding on the preferred solution.