AN 'ENGAGEMENT exercise' has launched to support the rebuilding of a lost important route.

Starting from September 20, the four-week long engagement period - which ends on October 18 - will seek the views of residents regarding the replacement for Llanerch Bridge.

The 19th century bridge collapsed during Storm Christoph in January. Denbighshire County Council established a diversion route which takes traffic via the A55 and through St Asaph.

Workshops have been held with consultants and the council has met with other partners such as Natural Resources Wales to look at suitable replacement structures and materials for the crossing.

Councillor Brian Jones, Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment, said: “Denbighshire County Council fully appreciate how important historically Llanerch Bridge is to local residents and to the economic resilience of the area surrounding it. We therefore encourage all interested stakeholders to participate in the engagement exercise for the replacement bridge.

"It would be prudent to note the fact that the funding stream to cover the cost of replacement bridge is not an easy obstacle to overcome.

"The initial response from the Welsh Government on this subject was not good but we continue to communicate on the matter with them and also potential other finance routes.”

Readers can share their views online by visiting countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/project/620

Paper copies will also be distributed for collection and drop off to:

  • Trefnant Village Stores
  • Trefnant Chip Shop
  • The Salusbury Arms, Tremeirchion (during pub opening hours).
  • The community kiosk in Tremeirchion (collection point only)

They will also be available at St Asaph and Denbigh libraries.

The information will be used to help develop a business case so that the council can seek funding for the project.