FOLLOWING local media reports and constituent contact about a lane closure on the A465 westbound between Clydach and Brynmawr a member of the Senedd has written to the government for answers.

Member of the Senedd for Sir Fynwy Torfaen, Peter Fox raised a written question to the Welsh Government to seek clarity on the closure.

Following a response from the Deputy Minister for Transport, who advised:

“A routine inspection of the Clydach Gorge Viaduct identified a structural defect, so we (Welsh Government) introduced a lane closure on the westbound A465 to protect the safety of the travelling public.

“Repair works are progressing, and we will remove the restriction once they are complete.”

Mr Fox has written in reply to the Minister to ask for further information on the defect, and a timetable for repairs, whilst also taking the opportunity to highlight the issues seen with the A465 dualling scheme since construction began, and since it was ’finished’ in 2021.

The Sir Fynwy Torfaen MS has asked if a full assessment of the road between Gilwern and Brynmawr has been undertaken to check for any further defects, and to ask for a commitment for one to be undertaken if not.

Local MS for Sir Fynwy, Peter Fox, said: “The A465 is constantly talked up by Welsh Government as a success for Wales and our valley communities, but I am afraid the Blackrock section has once again put doubt on this.

“This section was over three years delayed, £100 million over budget, and has had countless snagging issues.

“Last year I raised concerns about the condition of the road surface, further concerns with the former First Minister about a lack of hard shoulder, and now we see this latest defect causing further problems for motorists.

“I have asked Welsh Government for a commitment to assess the road fully, so that any further issues and problems for motorists are caught and addressed now.”