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Afon Elwy Shifts Course Near Pont y Ddol, Raising Erosion Fears

Officials warn unapproved river works can destabilize channels.

Overview

  • Footage shows the Afon Elwy has cut a new channel near Pont y Ddol, leaving a former bed dry and alarming residents and anglers.
  • Temporary Heras fencing now lines the bank at the site after a community meeting with NRW, and Conwy Council says it will keep watch on the road and bridge.
  • The reshaped reach sits about 140ft upstream of the 18th‑century Pont y Ddol bridge, where NRW manages the river and Conwy Council is responsible for the adjacent road.
  • The cause has not been identified, and NRW cautions that unapproved gravel removal, bank reprofiling and straightening can trigger erosion, raise flood risk and harm wildlife.
  • Longer term work is being explored, including restoring meanders in straightened sections as natural flood management, with a study listing about 400 potential projects across the Elwy catchment.