 It will costs thousands of pounds to repair the bridge |
A bridge in mid Wales could be closed for weeks after heavy rain and flooding caused damage to its supports. Some drivers will face a 15-mile detour as a result of problems at Dolau bridge, near Llandrindod Wells.
Powys Council said repairs would cost thousands of pounds, but diversions have been put in place for cars and high-sided vehicles.
Flooding and rain had left the deck of the bridge only partially supported, said the council.
A council spokesman said: "The county council's framework contractor, Alun Griffiths, has been commissioned at short notice to undertake the strengthening works.
"They started propping the deck and investigatory excavation on Wednesday.
 |  It is hoped the works will be completed in four weeks |
"It is hoped the works will be completed in four weeks although the actual time will be dependant on river conditions and the possibility of additional works on exposure of the collapsed abutment."
The council said everything was being done to reopen the A44 at the bridge at the "earliest opportunity".
It was closed last Friday following the recent flooding which caused "severe undercutting" of one of the bridge abutments.
A diversion has been set up between Rhayader and Crossgates for traffic using the A470, A483 and A4081 via Llanyre.
High vehicles are being routed along the C1202 and C1214.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
