Fresh calls for a decision on a proposed £23m Machynlleth bridge have been made by Montgomeryshire AM's and councillors.

Recent flooding caused by Storm Callum once again left residents stranded in Machynlleth as the river Dyfi surged over the flood plain at the existing crossing, closing the A487 to traffic.

And now politicians are calling for "urgent progress" on the proposed new Dyfi Bridge, which has been the subject of a government consultation exercise for the past twelve months.

Speaking in the National Assembly this week, Montgomeryshire Assembly Member Russell George requested an update on the timetable for construction of the new bridge, which would also see a new pumped drainage system installed at the Cambrian line railway bridge to address flooding in the area.

"The need for a new Dyfi Bridge is undeniable following further recent flooding which has caused traffic disruption and inconvenience for local residents," he said.

"I wrote to the Cabinet Secretary earlier in the summer asking how the Welsh Government was seeking to appease objectors to the new bridge.

"My understanding is that if the concerns of objectors can be successfully addressed, there will be no need for a public inquiry and construction can begin in earnest.

"I was pleased that the Cabinet Secretary recognised the importance of this project for the local area and confirmed that the Welsh Government is continuing to work with landowners to resolve the remaining statutory objections and are finalising land agreements with Network Rail."

County Councillor for Machynlleth Michael Williams said he wanted to see the Welsh Government "get on with it", and he was not aware of the reason for the ongoing delay.

"I agree with Russell's comments and indeed I write to Ken Skates some time ago and he replied to say he was still evaluating the consultation responses, and would be making a decision before Christmas," he said.

"Machynlleth people are feeling absolutely frustrated that it seems as though nothing is happening. We have had numerous assurances but I would urge the Welsh Government to get on with the work."

In his response to Mr George, Transport Secretary Ken Skates said his department was working hard to resolve a 'small number of objections' to the scheme, but that it had taken longer than he would have liked.

"If we can resolve the remaining objections, then we will be able to avoid a public inquiry, which would save significant time in terms of the delivery programme," he said.

"Until a decision on whether a public local inquiry is required, I'm unable to confirm a specific date for the start of the works, but I do recognise the major importance of this particular project to the community and the wider area. "