Essential repairs have begun on Bwlch Mountain Road

Emergency repair work to the culvert at A4061 Bwlch-y-Clawdd road, Nantymoel, has started this week to remedy culvert damage caused by Storm Bert in November.  Due to the urgent need for the repairs, a specialist contractor already working for the local authority has been authorised to undertake the works so that they can be expedited.

November saw the widespread disruption caused by Storm Bert, including a collapsed culvert causing falling debris onto the A4061, making the road unsafe.  The landslip resulted in a temporary road closure, whilst highway staff cleared the route and put in place short term protective structures to mitigate further falling debris, as well as traffic control to allow the road to be reopened. 

Following the storm, an evaluation of the required remedial work revealed the need for specialists to complete the repairs and slope stabilisation, which could not be delayed.

Bridgend County Borough Council is applying to cover the estimated costs of £131,000 through Welsh Government funding, as part of the Emergency Financial Assistance Scheme to support local authorities following the recent storms. 

With the council’s Cabinet aware of how the risk on the Bwlch Mountain Road is being addressed, works have started this week and will continue for four weeks, between 9am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday.  During the closure times, motorists will be able to travel directly between Neath Port Talbot and Rhondda Cynon Taf, but not in the direction of Bridgend County Borough, although diversions will be in place.

Cllr Paul Davies, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, said: “The current works to the A4061 Bwlch-y-Clawdd road, Nantymoel, are vital to protect the public now and in the future.  Through this investment we hope to secure and safeguard the area to withstand any future storms.

“We are extremely fortunate that we can respond so quickly to this hazardous situation.  Our contractor is experienced in working in a steep sided mountain environment and has the expertise to carry out the remedial work, which started just this week.

“During the coming weeks, we aim to minimise any disruption and I am certain that people will understand the necessity of the repairs in protecting the public.  In the meantime, we would like to thank everyone for their patience.”