Less than a week into the closure on the A493, some Powys residents have been adapting to the lengthy diversions caused by the closure.

Since February 11, a section of the A493 has been closed to facilitate works related to the new Dyfi Bridge, with the closure expected to last 30 days.

While steps have been taken to mitigate the closure, such as officially opening the new Dyfi bridge to provide residents with a fast route across the river, others still face big diversions. People driving from Machynlleth to Pennal, for instance, are faced with a diversion of over 40 miles.

Prior to the closure, some groups in the area offered services to cope with the inconvenience posed by the closure, such as Machynlleth based hotel Plas Dolguog, which announced that it would be offering rooms to locals affected for cost-only weekday stays.

Hotel manager Stephanie Windsor-Lewis said: “We have had a few rooms booked this week and a few more next week, from a whole mix of people looking to get a more convenient place to stay during the closure.  

“Our guests range from people in need of a more accessible location for childcare or a nurse who stays here after shifts rather than make the long journey home after a tiring time at work.

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“People seem to be appreciative of the service being offered, which is good since we know it poses a problem for some people, especially since we’re affected by the diversion as well.

“As it’s half-term we haven’t had to deal with the school run yet, but some measures have been put in place to help people navigate the closure.”

Machynlleth based bus company Lloyds Coaches announced prior to the closure that they will be running special services that will see passengers accompanied through the closed section of road on foot before continuing their journey.

A spokesperson for Lloyds Coaches said: “During the closure of the Old Dyfi Bridge, Service X29 / G21 will operate to a normal timetable

“Buses will run from Dolgellau, Tywyn and Aberdyfi to the Northern side of the bridge where passengers will be escorted to a Shuttle Bus by foot, on the Southern side of the bridge which will continue to Machynlleth Clock and vice versa.”

Mrs Windsor-Lewis added: “It seems really well thought out and should be a big help to those on this side of the closure with children in Pennal school.”