A temporary lane closure has been introduced on the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road westbound to protect public safety
Work was completed between Clydach and Brynmawr in 2021(Image: Richard Swingler)
A “structural defect” has been discovered on the Heads of the Valleys Road causing a temporary lane closure.
The issue on the Clydach Gorge Viaduct, on the A465 westbound between Clydach and Brynmawr, was identified during a routine inspection.
The Welsh Government has now introduced a lane closure and deputy minister for transport Mark Hooper said repair work was progressing on the viaduct.
He confirmed the restrictions would be lifted once the work has been completed.
Member of the Senedd for Sir Fynwy Torfaen Peter Fox has now asked for further information on the defect and asked for a timetable for the repair work.
Mr Fox has also called for the government to undertake a full assessment of the road between Gilwern and Brynmawr in order to check for further defects. Stay in the know by making sure you’re receiving our daily newsletter.
Mr 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, £100m overbudget, 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.”
The A465 has long been the topic of debate having been the most expensive road construction project ever in Wales.
Over a period of 23 years the road was transformed into a dual carriageway section by section before finally opening in June 2025.
The section between Clydach and Brynmawr opened in November 2021 with the five-mile stretch of road costing £336m.
