Otters, fish and bats have been placed at the centre of plans for a �1.55m bridge at an accident blackspot in Carmarthenshire.

The existing bridge at Pont Twrch is being replaced because it is narrow, has a poor accident record, and is weak.

We have included bat roosts and an otter pass within the new bridge Pam Palmer, Carmarthenshire County Council

Work has already started on the new crossing on the A482 near Pumsaint, which is due to open for traffic early in 2003.

During the planning stages, the council liaised with the Environment Agency to ensure the habitats of local species would be affected as little as possible.

Carmarthenshire council's Pam Palmer said environmental concerns were central to the plans.

"Measures have been taken to protect bats and nesting birds," she said.

"We have included bat roosts and an otter pass within the new bridge."

Trevor Sage, head of transport at Carmarthenshire council, added the bridge would be a single span arch, to help water flow, particularly after floods.

"We are also making modifications to a weir to help the passage of fish," he said.

Serious accidents

Mr Sage said parapets on the old bridge had been damaged by crashes at the site.

"There have been a number of serious accidents due to poor road alignment, and cars have gone into the river," he said.

Otters will benefit from the bridge

He explained that the idea of placing a weight restriction on the bridge had been considered, but was dismissed.

"The alternative route, via Carmarthen, is about 66 miles long, and could have had serious consequences to the local economy."

Due to an Environment Agency embargo, work will not be allowed on the river itself during the winter months as it could disturb fish migration patterns.

Until this ban is lifted in March, work will be concentrated on the approach roads.

Once the bridge is completed, traffic will be diverted away from the old crossing, which will then be demolished.

The project, which will be reinforced using stainless steel, is due to be completed in June 2003.