Safety Concerns – Caersws


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Thank you to everybody who has been in touch about the safety of pedestrians in and around Caersws

The Community Council submitted a further proposal to Powys County Council in October 2025 – Footbridge proposal Document

Since then, there has been some progress.

In late 2025 Welsh Government confirmed in writing that they are working with Powys County Council and the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent to explore options to improve pedestrian movements across the river at Caersws, including the potential for a new footbridge

This was followed up publicly in January 2026, when it was stated that the footbridge plans had been reviewed with Powys County Council and that the footbridge and the Moat Lane junction safety improvements appear to align well. At that stage, the next step was to bring both project teams together, with consultation on Moat Lane safety options was expected before Easter 2026

At present. there is still no confirmed construction date yet, and no final design has been shared with the community. We are therefore still waiting for more detail on exactly what form the bridge proposal may take and when residents will have the opportunity to comment on it.

It is also worth noting that with the upcoming Senedd elections, progress on projects like this can sometimes slow while decisions move through a pre-election period. We would expect more clarity on timelines and next steps once the administration is in place and priorities are confirmed.

In relation to suggestions about traffic lights on the bridge,Welsh Government confirmed in December 2025 that there are currently no proposals to install traffic signals on the bridge. The focus remains on improving pedestrian movement, including consideration of a new footbridge

In summary:

  • There is now a formal committment that a footbridge is being considered
  • The footbridge and Moat Lane improvements are being considered together
  • Further consultation on junction proposals is expected

However, there is not yet a confirmed scheme, timeline or full design available to the public.

Thank you again for getting in touch and for continuing to share your views. We fully recognise the strength of local feeling around both the bridge and the road crossing, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

The safety requests are fully supported by our MP, MS and local Councillor

How residents can help improve safety in and around our villages

We know how strongly people feel about safety at Caersws Bridge. The most important thing we can do now is turn those concerns into evidence.

The more consistent, recorded information we have, the stronger the case becomes for action and investment.

1. Report incidents (non-emergency)

There are a few simple ways residents can help:

If you witness unsafe driving, near misses, or ongoing issues, please report them via 101 or online:
https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contact-us/

Repeated reports really matter – they help build a clear picture over time

This can lead to enforcement action, including Section 59 warnings for persistent offenders

2. Submit dashcam footage

If you have dashcam footage of unsafe driving, this can be submitted via:
Operation Snap (National Dash Cam Safety Portal)
https://www.nextbase.com/en-gb/national-dash-cam-safety-portal/

This is one of the most effective ways to support enforcement

Video evidence can directly lead to police action

3. Report road or safety concerns

You can also report issues directly to the relevant authorities:

Powys County Council
https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/732/Report-a-problem-with-a-road-or-pavement

Traffic Wales (A470 / trunk road)
https://traffic.wales/carriageway-defects-and-hazards

One-off complaints are easy to dismiss.

Consistent reporting from multiple residents creates real evidence.

  • Dates, times and details all help
  • Even small incidents contribute to the bigger picture

4. Volunteer for Community Speedwatch

We are also looking for volunteers to support a local Speedwatch group:
https://gosafe.org/community-speed-watch/

  • Helps monitor speeds and raise awareness locally
  • Adds further evidence to support safety improvement requests

5. Signup for Dyfed-Powys Connects

Dyfed-Powys Connects is an easy, free email messaging service, that allows local officers to keep you informed about issues in your area, that are relevant to you.

https://www.dyfed-powysconnects.co.uk/

Why does this matter

Every report, every piece of evidence helps build the case for change.

We are actively pushing for improvements, including safer pedestrian provision, but decisions and funding rely heavily on clear, recorded evidence of risk.

By working together, we can strengthen the case for a safer crossing in Caersws

Please Contact: clerk@caerswscommunitycouncil.co.uk for any queries or questions

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caerswscommunitycouncil