There are long delays around the A55 Conwy Tunnel which has been closed for emergency repairs.
The A55 Conwy Tunnel is completely closed (Image: Traffic Wales)
Drivers in north Wales are facing huge disruption due to an emergency closure of the A55 Conwy Tunnel in both directions. Traffic Wales confirmed the tunnel, which, shut suddenly shortly after 8.30am this morning due to a fault, has been closed due to an issue within the tunnel’s safety systems.
The closure means that motorists travelling on the A55 are facing severe delays. Traffic queues have stretched back miles to Penmaenmawr and Colwyn Bay on either side, as efforts to reopen the tunnel continue. Images from the traffic cameras in the area showed gridlocked roads on Monday morning.
A diversion route of up to 45 miles, via Betws y Coed on the A470 and A5, is in place for some drivers.
Janet Finch-Saunders, the Senedd member for Aberconwy said: “The A55 Conwy Tunnel is a vital transport artery for north west Wales, so the traffic chaos caused with its closure is unsurprising.
“I have every confidence that the Traffic Wales team are using all the levers at their disposal to identify the cause of the problems and deliver a solution.
“We can all help them and all communities on the diversion route by only travelling if totally necessary.” For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here
Here is everything we know about the tunnel’s closure.
Why is the tunnel closed?
The tunnel was closed at 8.30am on Monday, October 20, when a fault was identified with its safety systems.
Traffic Wales said: “The A55 Conwy Tunnel has been closed both directions urgently this morning due to fault identified within the tunnel’s safety systems.
“Work is ongoing on site to investigate the fault as soon as possible.
“For the safety of the travelling public, it is not possible for traffic to pass through the tunnel until the fault has been repaired.
“We ask travellers to allow more time for their journeys and use the appropriate signed diversions. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this time.”
How long will the Conwy Tunnel be closed for?
It is not known how long the tunnel will be closed for. The Welsh Government said: “Work is going on at pace to investigate the fault and rectify it as soon as possible.”
What is the diversion for motorists?
Diversions of up to 45 miles are in place for motorists, according to North Wales Live. The diversion to completely circumnavigate to the other side of the tunnel on the A55 is via Betws y Coed on the A470 and A5.
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