DETAILED plans for improving the A55 roundabouts at Penmaenmawr and Dwygyfylchi have been announced by the Welsh Government.

A scheme known as Option D has been selected to replace the roundabout at Junction 15 Llanfairfechan, and Option A for Junction 16 at Penmaenmawr and Dwygyfylchi.

A Welsh Government spokesman said these options have been chosen: “Having taken full account of the technical, social, economic and environmental aspects of the scheme and listened carefully to the consultation responses.

“Option D would provide movement on and off the A55 in four directions, two eastbound and two westbound, at junction 15 by utilising an overbridge with a T junction to the north of the A55 and a priority junction to the south of the existing roundabout. The slip roads on the north would be raised locally to allow the bridge to pass over the A55.

“Option A, for junction 16, would provide a four way movement. The roundabout would be removed and replaced by westbound on and off slip roads. The arrangement would include an overbridge, and slip roads would be constructed on raised embankments. A new link road would be constructed, running parallel to the A55, linking back into Ysguborowen Road.

“As outlined in the public consultation and exhibitions, all options for junction 15 would directly impact properties in the area. Further work was carried out on Option D, following comments received during the public consultation, this means fewer properties would be affected than initially anticipated. Now three properties, consisting of 10 flats, would be wholly affected. A further two buildings containing six flats are also at risk subject to further surveys. Welsh Government officials will work closely with tenants and the local authority to mitigate the impact of property demolition.

“A public information exhibition will take place this summer to display and explain the preferred options as well as the following stages. Construction could start in 2021.”

Ken Skates, minister for economy and transport, said: “The improvement scheme is an important part of our plans to improve North Wales transport infrastructure.

“The A55 is a key route and improving its resilience and safety, as well as providing better journey times and reducing delays, is vital.

“It is clear the current roundabouts affect average speeds along the A55 where vehicles need to slow down through the junction. Due to traffic volumes on the A55, access from Llanfairfechan, Penmaenmawr and Dwygyfylchi through the roundabouts, is also difficult and queues are a regular occurrence. The preferred options would remove these difficulties.

“We will engage closely with residents affected to mitigate any impact and ensure they remain a major part of the next stages.”