Councillors have unanimously backed plans for a new £1.2m bridge on the Llyn Peninsula.
Pont Bodfel was declared unsafe in 2019 when one of the arch pillars collapsed into the river below, having been struck by a vehicle.
A temporary bridge was built, but now looks set to be replaced with a £1.2m permanent structure after being given the planning go-ahead.
With Gwynedd Council planning for the new structure to be in place ahead of the expected influx generated by the 2023 National Eisteddfod, its Grade-II listed predecessor looks to be retained for the use of walkers.
On Monday, the planning committee heard that while the temporary ‘Bailey’ road bridge means vehicles are once again able to cross the river, traffic lights remain at the site as it continues to be confined to a single file.
Options to widen the historic bridge were explored, but found to be “logistically challenging”, leading to its wider replacement just down river.
Constructed to the south of the existing Pont Bodfel, work will involve realigning the A497 and the approach, while also improving the nearby Gefail y Bont junction towards Llannor to merge safely with the new route.
Members were told that there was “little choice” but to build a new structure to cope with the demands of modern transport needs.
Cllr Owain Williams said: “As someone from Dwyfor I welcome these proposals, which are very much needed.
“It’s been quite a nasty bridge, quite dangerous, and those visiting the National Eisteddfod will find it a very handy addition I’m sure.”
The application documents state the carriageway will be designed to accommodate 50mph speeds and be 7.3m wide, with plans slightly amended to meet the approval of Natural Resources Wales and authority biodiversity officers.