Anglesey Council in talks over financial support for businesses hit by Menai Bridge closure

Talks are taking place between Anglesey Council and the Welsh Government over financial support for businesses hit by the closure of the Menai Suspension Bridge.

The crossing over the Menai Strait was closed to all traffic with immediate effect last month.

The decision was taken by the devolved government after serious risks were identified and based on the recommendation of structural engineers.

The local authority is trying to get the message out that nearby shops and businesses are very much open and in need of support from local shoppers.

Officials have also prepared an online survey so businesses can have their say following reports of a loss in trade and less footfall in Menai Bridge in particular.

It is hoped that data provided via the survey will bolster the council’s case for extra funding from the government to support the local business community.

More than 80 local businesses will be contacted directly and asked to complete the online survey by providing information about how trade has been affected and to what extent.

Anglesey Council’s deputy leader and economic development portfolio holder, Councillor Carwyn Jones, said: “The Menai Suspension Bridge is a vital gateway to and from the town centre. Whilst the bridge is closed – the town is very much open for business and needs our support.

“Local businesses have reported a fall in trade since the closure. We hope that the survey will play a vital role in gauging how much shops and businesses in the town have been impacted.

“We are already holding discussions with colleagues in Welsh Government in respect of the impact of the closure of the bridge on local businesses. Business Wales are also helping to support businesses in the town.

“We hope the online survey will provide the relevant information on the impact on businesses and help us build a case for further intervention if required. I would, therefore, urge local businesses to complete it as soon as possible.”

The county council is working in partnership with Welsh Government, Menter Môn, Menai Bridge Town Council, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and Bangor University to mitigate the impact of the bridge closure.

Businesses in Menai Bridge can request a link to the online survey via EconDev@anglesey.gov.wales if they do not receive one directly to their email inbox by 21 November.