Country diary: A new perspective on an old haunt | John Gilbey

Pont ar Ddyfi, Machynlleth: The swallows and martins are out in the shimmering heat, and I'm taking in a glorious view of the Afon Dyfi from the safety of a new bridgeThe new bridge across the Afon Dyfi was officially opened in February, and two colourful strands of celebratory bunting still cling to the western parapet. Built to replace an elegant 19th-century stone-arched bridge - battered by time, floods and traffic - it lifts the trunk road over the flood plain of the Dyfi in a sweeping curve almost a mile long. I assiduously avoided the area during the lengthy construction phase, but now the dust has settled I've come to explore.As a "non-motorised traveller", in the technical parlance of the architect, I'm pleased to find a wide path on the western side of the bridge - along with a sturdy railing just the right height for me to lean on. From nearly 30ft above the ground I have a new perspective on the valley, especially where the span crosses the river itself. Continue reading...