UPDATE: The proposed nuclear plant at Wylfa on Anglesey has intensified the argument for a third Menai crossing, according to Wales First Minister Eluned Morgan. This crucial development follows the UK Government’s announcement last month that Wylfa will host the UK’s first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), marking a significant shift five years after the previous large-scale project collapsed due to funding disputes.
The need for a third crossing has been a topic of discussion for years, gaining urgency as ongoing roadworks and closures at the Menai Suspension Bridge complicate transportation. “The case for a third Menai crossing becomes stronger when you’ve got that kind of investment in North Wales,” Morgan stated, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure to support the anticipated surge in traffic during the construction phase of the SMR site.
The Wylfa project is expected to generate around 3,000 jobs during peak construction, with approximately 300 permanent positions once operational. Morgan noted, “It’s amazing seeing so many cabinet members recognizing this is a really big deal.” The First Minister also highlighted the historical significance of the nuclear site, recalling how previous generations were trained for jobs that vanished when earlier projects failed.
In addition to the nuclear development, Morgan addressed the broader economic potential of the region, particularly with the emergence of an AI growth zone nearby. “You’re talking about thousands of extra jobs,” she remarked. The recent opening of the new Siemens Healthcare Technology Centre in Llanberis secured 400 existing roles and created 100 new skilled jobs, further underscoring the region’s growing employment landscape.
Last week, the Welsh Government hosted its first investment summit, attended by the Prince of Wales and global representatives from firms like Nvidia and Vodafone. Morgan emphasized the need for streamlined business processes, stating, “I’ve set an ambition for Wales to be the fastest place you can get planning permission in the UK.” This initiative aims to attract more businesses and enhance the local economy.
Morgan’s vision for the future of Wales includes fast-tracking development and fostering relationships with major companies. “I’ve spoken to Rolls Royce about how we can work together to speed things up,” she confirmed, expressing her commitment to bringing additional investments to Wales.
As the Wylfa project unfolds, residents and officials alike are eager to see how these developments will impact transportation and job creation in North Wales. The urgency to address infrastructure needs, particularly the third Menai crossing, cannot be overstated as the region braces for significant changes ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
