Locals' fear over Barmouth bridge closure

Locals in Barmouth say the closure of a 900m railway bridge would impact tourism in north Wales.

The distinctive Barmouth Bridge, that's been used for 150 years, faces being closed to walkers because of council cuts, forcing people to travel an extra eighteen miles around.

The local council says it cannot afford to pay Network Rail more than £30,000 a year for the right of way.

Nearly 100,000 people walked the scenic Mawddach Trail including the Barmouth Bridge last year alone.

Kevin Ashford reports from Barmouth:

The threat of closure comes just two years before Barmouth Bridge is due to celebrate its 150th anniversary having opened in 1867.

Quentin Grimley, Wales Coast Path advisor for Natural Resources Wales, said the bridge was an "essential part" of the Wales Coast Path and the National Cycle Network.

Gwynedd Council says it needs to find £9 million worth of cuts by early 2016 but it is in contact with National Rail to find a solution.