How the A55 Dual Carriageway Revolutionized North Wales Travel and Tourism

Published on December 28, 2025

The A55, the vital dual carriageway that runs across North Wales, has undergone significant changes since its inception. Over the years, this road has played an important role in improving regional travel by connecting the English border to the bustling port town of Holyhead. However, its development was far from simple. From its inception to its eventual expansion, the A55 project encountered numerous challenges that shaped both the landscape and the lives of local residents.

The Challenges of Development

When the idea of upgrading the A55 first emerged, it was viewed as an essential step towards improving accessibility and fostering economic growth in North Wales. The idea was to extend the road from the English border to Bangor and eventually to Holyhead, a key location for trade and tourism. However, like most large-scale infrastructure projects, the plan encountered resistance. Logistical difficulties, engineering complexities, and most notably, differing public opinions, led to heated debates that spanned several decades.

The Controversy Over Colwyn Bay

One of the most contentious issues during the development of the A55 was the route through Colwyn Bay, the largest coastal town in North Wales. The Welsh Office at the time proposed a dual carriageway directly through the heart of Colwyn Bay, which would have required extensive demolition and displacement of the local community. The plan sparked opposition from residents, local businesses, and even politicians, who voiced concerns over the environmental and social impact of such a drastic approach.

Amidst these concerns, alternative proposals emerged, most notably an inland bypass route that would avoid the town entirely. This inland route would have taken the A55 through the Conwy countryside, bypassing the towns of Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, and Conway. This option was supported by some, as it promised less disruption and would preserve the integrity of the towns along the coast. Despite the advantages of this inland route, the Welsh Office continued to push for the more direct option through Colwyn Bay.

The Afon Conwy Crossing Dilemma

Another major point of debate in the A55 development was how to cross the Afon Conwy, a significant river that flows through the region. Various solutions were proposed over the years, including bridges, tunnels, and even a barrage. Each option came with its own set of challenges, including high costs and technical feasibility concerns. Ultimately, the solution was a tunnel, which was completed and opened in 1991, allowing the A55 to continue its journey smoothly without disrupting the natural landscape or local communities.

Political and Public Debates

Throughout the development of the A55, the Welsh Government and local MPs were caught in a delicate balancing act between infrastructure progress and the wishes of the local population. Politicians debated fiercely, with differing opinions on the best route for the road. Concerns about the long-term environmental impact and the potential for economic downturns were voiced regularly, particularly by those who feared the destruction of valuable landscapes and communities.

A major turning point in the debate occurred in the mid-1970s when an eight-month public inquiry was held to evaluate the various proposals for the A55. The inquiry revealed deep divisions between local authorities, residents, and the Welsh Office, with some supporting the bypass and others advocating for a direct route through Colwyn Bay. Eventually, the decision was made to proceed with the original plan, leading to the construction of the dual carriageway through Colwyn Bay.

The Impact on Colwyn Bay

While the construction of the A55 was intended to improve travel times and boost local economies, the process had significant negative effects on Colwyn Bay. The disruption caused by the construction project in the 1980s led to economic hardship for many businesses and residents, who found themselves caught in the middle of a major infrastructure overhaul. The economic downturn during the 1980s and 1990s was, in part, a consequence of the A55 construction, as tourism and local trade suffered due to road closures, traffic congestion, and the relocation of key amenities.

However, in the long run, the A55 has proven to be beneficial for the wider region. By improving accessibility, the road has helped attract tourists and businesses to North Wales, particularly Holyhead, which serves as a gateway to Ireland. The road has also contributed to the region’s economic development, making it easier for goods and services to flow into and out of North Wales.

A Peaceful Sanctuary Amidst Progress

Today, the Bwlch-y-Ddeufaen pass, which was once considered a potential route for the A55, remains largely untouched by the development. The pass, located in the Carneddau mountain range, offers a serene escape for walkers, nature enthusiasts, and farmers alike. The area is home to the iconic Carneddau ponies and remains a sanctuary for wildlife, despite the encroachment of modern infrastructure.

In many ways, this untouched corner of North Wales serves as a reminder of the region’s natural beauty and the challenges of balancing development with conservation. The A55, while transforming the region, has also left certain areas relatively undisturbed, allowing them to retain their tranquillity and charm.

A Road That Shaped North Wales

The construction of the A55 dual carriageway marked a watershed moment in North Wales’ history. Despite initial opposition and controversy, it eventually succeeded in better connecting the region to the rest of the UK and Ireland. The road exemplifies the complexities of modern infrastructure development and the importance of striking a delicate balance between progress and respect for local communities and the environment.

While the A55 has undoubtedly transformed the North Wales coast, the discussions and debates surrounding its construction are still part of the region’s history. The A55 project is a powerful reminder of how large-scale infrastructure projects can reshape not only landscapes but also the lives of those who live there.