A55 Rainbow Bridge lights up in tribute to key workers

The iconic Rainbow Bridge on the A55 has been lit up to say thank you to NHS, social care staff and other key workers.

This well-known landmark lived up to its name on Tuesday night when it was bathed in rainbow colours alongside a thank you message projected onto the nearby cliffside.

This one-off tribute to staff from the health and care sectors and other key workers who are working tirelessly during the Covid-19 pandemic, was arranged by the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent.

The walkway over the A55, colloquially known as Rainbow Bridge, is situated on the strategic road network which NMWTRA is responsible for maintaining and managing on behalf of the Welsh Government.

Despite usually being one of the network’s busiest spots, the 70% yearly reduction in traffic volumes meant that key workers could be recognised safely and with minimal disruption to road users. Traffic Officers were also on hand to support the effort and ensure traffic flowed smoothly.

NMWTRA worked closely with contractors SPIE to deliver the well-deserved display. Following calls from the public and local councillors to light up the bridge, the Welsh Government and the Trunk Road Agent worked together to deliver this tribute to all key workers.

Ken Skates, Minister for North Wales said:  “The Rainbow Bridge has become the symbol of something special during these difficult times.  I’m pleased that we were able to accommodate the wishes of people who asked if it could be lit up to honour the key workers across the country who are doing such a tremendous job.

“This will also include members of the Trunk Road Agent themselves, who maintain our road network on a daily basis, keeping essential travellers safe, including the emergency services and freight.”

David Cooil,  NMWTRA Head of Service added:

“We’ve recently seen a 70% reduction in vehicles across the network. We’d like to say a big thank you to those who are listening to the guidelines and continue to urge all road users to travel only when essential.

We’re putting these lower traffic volumes to advantage by progressing with essential maintenance and construction on the network, as well as doing our bit to pay tribute to those on the frontline of the fight against Coronavirus- from NHS staff to our officers on the ground, our supply chains and transport colleagues. They are all doing incredible work and have a vital part to play in supporting the country’s current response to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent road to recovery.”