The Menai Suspension Bridge, one of the links connecting Anglesey to mainland Wales, is to be closed immediately due to a “structural problem”.
The first-class landmark was first discovered in 1826.
It was built by Thomas Telford and crosses the Menai Strait.
The Welsh Government said a problem was discovered during an inspection and the bridge is likely to remain closed until the New Year while repairs are carried out.
Motorists will still be able to use the A55 Britannia Bridge to cross. The government added that it would “increase the resilience” of this bridge, as it is often closed to high-sided vehicles during bad weather.
The Menai Bridge was the world’s first suspension bridge. It is 1,265 feet long and its fairway is set 30 meters above the water to allow tall ships to sail beneath it.
The bridge will be closed to vehicles from 2pm on October 21, but the footpath will remain open to pedestrians and dismounted cyclists.
Shortly after the announcement, it was reported that traffic was already increasing.
In a tweet, Traffic Wales said: “Congestion update: 3pm. #A494 Drome corner Westbound and #A55 Westbound Britannia bridge. Delays likely.’
A spokesman for Britain’s A55 motorways said: “Although this issue will cause disruption, we must act in the interests of public safety.
“We are currently reviewing the findings that led to the closure recommendation and are evaluating all available options to reopen the bridge as soon as possible so that people can return to regular use of the bridge.”
Deputy Minister for Climate Change for Transport, Lee Waters, added: “This urgent work is being done for public safety, unfortunately it is unavoidable, but we are fully aware of the impact this will have on people in the local area.
“We are working closely with UK Highways to ensure this work is carried out safely and as quickly as possible with minimal disruption to the local community.”
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