Historic bridge linking Wales and England has finally reopened – but could quickly be forced to close again – UK Times

A 210-year-old old cast-iron bridge connecting Wales and England has partially reopened, but may have to close again if the weather gets too hot or cold.

The Old Wye bridge in Chepstow reopened on Saturday to pedestrians while engineers continue further structural checks.

The historic bridge fully closed to walkers and cyclists in March this year after routine inspections in October 2025 identified cracks and cars were barred from crossing.

Engineers assessed that the structure was overstressed, Monmouthshire county council said. Now walkers have been welcomed back on to the bridge, which crosses the River Wye between Monmouthshire and Gloucestershire, but the council is ready to close it again if “further deterioration of the cast iron girders [horizontal beams used to support the bridge] is identified”.

The bridge will close again if Chepstow experiences any extreme temperatures, specifically if they rise above 30C or fall below -3C.

With a heatwave expected across London and the South East, South West and Wales, temperatures could get up to 30C. Tuesday and Wednesday next week could bring highs of 33C to Chepstow, as the capital braces for potentially 37C heat.

Amber heat health alerts are in force across the South East, the East of England, London, the Midlands and the South West and are in place until Wednesday evening.

The Old Wye bridge was made from cast iron in 1816 and is a Grade I listed building.

Cllr Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment at Monmouthshire county council, said: “We’re pleased to be able to safely reopen the Old Wye Bridge to pedestrians, restoring an important local link for our communities. This decision has been guided by specialist engineering advice and supported by ongoing monitoring to ensure public safety remains our top priority.

“We recognise how valued this crossing is for residents and visitors, and while further detailed checks continue, we will keep the bridge under close review and take any necessary action to protect those using it.”

Further checks will assess the level of metal fatigue at critical points on the bridge.