THE A55 perfect storm gridlock at Llanddulas has ended ahead of schedule according to the Welsh Government.

The A55 had been reduced to single lane contraflow working with a speed limit of 40 mph between Junction 23 at Llanddulas and the footbridge at Colwyn Bay,.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “Work on the A55 Kneeshaw Lupton underbridge has been completed and all traffic management removed. We would like to thank the travelling public for their patience and understanding whilst this essential work was carried out.”

The roadworks had caused considerable queuing on the A55 and drivers seeking alternative routes used rat runs through Old Colwyn, causing traffic gridlock.

The roadworks had been described by cllr Brian Cossey who represents Colwyn on Conwy council, as a perfect storm. He said: “We ended up with the perfect storm closure of the prom and the roadworks on the A55. The traffic through Old Colwyn is horrendous with everything funnelled through the village. It's time some consideration was given to people who are just trying to go about their normal business.

“We definitely need to have a proper alternative route. Residents of Old Colwyn are sick and tired of the continued traffic congestion every time any work is carried out on the A55.

“The prom will be closed more often with climate change and rising sea levels. We need the Welsh Government to understand the need for new 21st century sea defences.”

The reason for the roadworks was to allow essential repairs to the A55 Kneeshaw Lupton under bridge eastbound carriageway. The work started on Sunday September 8 and was scheduled to last for five weeks.