Llandrinio Bridge in Powys closed over collapse fear

Image source, Peter Craine/Geograph

An 18th Century bridge in Powys has been closed to traffic and pedestrians after it was found to be at "significant risk" of collapsing.

Llandrinio bridge, on the B4393 over the River Severn north of Welshpool, will be shut until maintenance work is completed, Powys council said.

An alternative route will be signposted.

The pink sandstone-built bridge is a Grade I-listed ancient monument.

It was constructed in 1775 following the Montgomeryshire Turnpike Act of 1769, when 拢800 was set aside to build a bridge.

According to the , the bridge is flanked by two pairs of concrete pillars constructed during World War Two, when the fear of a German invasion was at its highest.

The blocks were positioned to act as "tank traps" to stop the enemy progressing over strategic river crossings.