Original by Lydi Morris, North Wales Live - https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/calls-action-halt-gri…
Motorists say better traffic control system is needed on Pont Fawr bridge in Llanrwst
Calls have been made for the authority to probe whether a better traffic control system could stop the notorious issues on a historic bridge.
The 17th Century Pont Fawr bridge in Llanrwst, which isn’t wide enough for two vehicles to pass, has led to traffic problems for years.
Due to the narrowness of the bridge, locals have long lived by the rule of 'first to the top wins', meaning whoever makes it to the hump in the middle of the bridge first, has right of way.
With increasing tourism in the surrounding area down to attractions such as Zip World Fforest and Surf Snowdonia, the bridge is understood to have seen a "significant increase" in usage in recent years.
As a result, there is said to be regular stalemates at the apex with some motorists refusing to reverse, while others are forced to back onto the busy A470 to let cars cross - posing a risk to motorists and pedestrians using the bridge.
Concerns have also been raised by locals that the caution light on the Trefriw side, which flashes amber when oncoming cars are approaching, causes confusion resulting in drivers still having to reverse from the bridge back onto the road.
In the past, motorists have said the use of traffic lights could prevent such issues occuring.
Now, Aberconwy AM Janet Finch-Saunders is calling for Conwy Council to probe the existing traffic control system to see whether a more effective arrangement could be put in place.
She said: "Evidently, for such an important road to have a single track bridge is never going to be ideal. However, there is a possibility that the situation could be better managed.
"When considering that the main issues include the notorious Mexican standoffs and the dangers of reversing when cars meet on the bridge, there is a clear step to take.
"I have now written to Conwy County Borough Council asking for a review of the current traffic control system so to ensure that it has the most effective arrangement in place."
Last summer, a video blogger captured the chaos on the bridge. Two cars were on opposite sides of the bridge, with traffic backed up behind them and neither were willing to reverse, causing a stand-off.
"Pont Fawr is an asset to Aberconwy," Ms Finch-Saunders added.
"In addition to this 17th Century bridge being a major attraction and one of Wales’ iconic locations, it provides an essential route across the Conwy River to the west of the Conwy Valley.
"With the alternatives for getting to communities such as Trefriw, Llanrhychwyn, and Dolgarrog, being the single track bridge five miles south in Betws-y-Coed, and the B5279 in Tal-y-Cafn, I am unsurprised that the bridge sees extensive use.
"More so, it is reasonable to foresee even more vehicles trying to make the crossing, especially given that it provides access to top tourist attractions, such as Gwydir Castle and Gardens, the Marin Trail, and Surf Snowdonia."
A spokeswoman for Conwy Council, said: "Traffic management on Pont Fawr has functioned satisfactorily for many years.
"However, we will consider whether any enhanced signage and road markings on the B5106 would address the concerns raised and help deal with the rare occasions when stalemates occur on the bridge."
