Conwy Tunnel repairs continue on ‘life safety systems’

Drivers are being warned of more overnight traffic restrictions in the Conwy Tunnel this week. Additional maintenance work is taking place and contraflow arrangements will be needed.

A tunnel bore will be closed between 7pm and 7am until Friday 18 July. Traffic Wales has not indicated which bore will be affected but most work so far has focused on the fire-damaged westbound tunnel, says the Daily Post.

Transport Secretary Ken Skates has previously said tunnel closures or traffic management may be needed for permanent repairs following a lorry fire on Thursday, June 19. The dramatic incident, involving a crane lorry, disrupted thousands of drivers who spent hours in slow-moving traffic when they were diverted. No one was injured but Mr Skates said the outcome could have been “horrific”.

On 8 July North Wales Fire and Rescue Service published the findings of an investigation into the incident. It is now believed the blaze was caused by a mechanical fault in the lorry.

The actions of fire crews and staff were praised for “preventing further escalation” by acting quickly in “extremely demanding circumstances”

Traffic Wales North said its teams have been working hard to repair life safety systems in the tunnel. During the upcoming work, a 3.2m width restriction will be in place during contraflow hours.