REPAIRS to the Grade II listed Wye Bridge have been applied for, following routine inspection of the structure.

General defects such as re-pointing and repairs to the pier aprons under the water line will be undertaken in September of this year with the underwater elements later this month subject to approval from Natural Resources Wales.

According to a report on the bridge, the work is needed to prepare the junction for improvements to relieve congestion on the busy stretch of the A40 as a failure of the parapet would have a "significant impact on the serviceability of the structure” with a likely impact to the pedestrian and vehicular traffic crossing the bridge.

Plans are being put forward for a third carriageway 170 metres long to allow traffic to filter onto the A466 without slowing the vast number of cars heading south, estimated at 26,000 per day.

The remaining two lanes would be dedicated for traffic heading towards Newport, Cardiff and the A449.

Locals have expressed some concern about the bats that are thought to roost under the arches, and the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings have recommended planners seek advice from a structural engineer with conservation accreditation to reduce the risk of damaging the historic fabric.

The Listed Building Consent, DC/2016/00299 was recommended for approval by Monmouth Town Council.

Between 1992 and 2005, at least 19 fatal or serious collisions took place on the A40 at the junction at Wyebridge Street.