Design based on Welsh mythology suggested for new Menai bridge

The Menai Strait (Welsh: Afon Menai) is a narrow stretch of shallow tidal water approximately 16 miles long, that separates the island of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) from the mainland of Wales (Cymru). The strait varies in width from about 1,300 ft (400 metres) 3,800ft (1,160 metres). The differential tides at the two ends of the strait cause strong currents that flow in both directions through the strait at different times, creating dangerous conditions. One of the most dangerous areas of the strait is known as the Swellies (Welsh Pwll Ceris) between two bridges that span the Strait. It was created during the Ice Age as glaciers flowed from Snowdonia (Eryri), and by the Irish Sea ice stream which covered Anglesey during the last ice age some 22,000 years ago. The Strait's unusual tidal conditions, sheltered position, and a rich variety of habitats including sea inlets and estuaries, mud and sand flats, lagoons, salt marsh, shingle beaches, sea cliffs and submerged limestone reefs, result in a unique and diverse marine life. It is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

There are now proposals for a new bridge to cross the Menai Strait. Various proposed designs are being considered by the Welsh Government. Local civil engineer Benji Poulton was not overly impressed when he recently visited an exhibition of the various proposed designs. He has come up with a new design for the £135m new Menai bridge, which he believes could boost tourism and promote Welsh culture. Inspired by the stories of the Mabinogion, compiled in Middle Welsh in the 12th–13th centuries from earlier oral traditions, he has drawn on the figure of Bendigeidfran who is a giant and king in Welsh mythology. Benji Poulton's designs feature Bendigeidfran rising up out of the water of the Menai Strait to support the new bridge. A Welsh Government spokesperson said "all options" would be considered.

Image: Benji Poulton's designs with Bendigeidfran rising up out of the water to support the bridge