A470 Talerddig Retaining Wall: Frequently Asked Questions

In October 2023 a retaining wall supporting the A470 between Talerddig and Dolfach partially collapsed and an emergency closure was put in place. During this period works were undertaken to stabilise the carriageway to allow the A470 to reopen with traffic lights in place to close the westbound lane. This arrangement has remained in place in order to remove any traffic loading from the weak edge.

This emergency repair and associated traffic management was a temporary solution put in place to keep traffic flowing on the A470 whilst a permanent solution was developed. Design work on the permanent repair has now been completed, and a road closure is now required in order to construct a new structure that will allow the road to fully reopen without traffic lights.

Why does the A470 need to be closed?

The retaining wall supporting the A470 above the adjacent Afon Iaen is over 5m tall and the carriageway is less than 8m wide. In order to construct the foundations of the new retaining wall the full width of the carriageway is needed to excavate enough material to allow access safely for our workforce. Other options explored included constructing a temporary embankment north of the site to allow through traffic, however ecological restrictions have made this option unviable.

How long will the A470 be closed for?

The A470 will be closed between 31st October and 20th December 2024. The road will be closed 24hrs per day throughout this period, however we are working with our supply chain to reduce duration this as far as possible. Following this closure period, 2-way traffic lights will be reinstalled at the site to complete construction activities. All traffic management will be removed form the site by 17th January 2025.

Will pedestrians and cyclists be able to travel through during the road closure?

Access through the works for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained throughout the closure periods. Please note that during certain activities pedestrians and cyclists may be asked to wait before being guided through the site by marshals. Please follow the instructions of site personnel for your own safety.

Can emergency vehicles travel through during the closure?

No, emergency vehicles will not be able to travel through the closure and the emergency services have been informed.

What is being done to mitigate the impact on school bus services?

We are undertaking these works in winter to avoid travel disruption at the busiest time of year. Unfortunately, this will have an impact on school transport. We are liaising with the relevant transport authorities and will provide a further update in due course. The closure period will coincide partially with the October/November half term dates.

What are the contractors working hours during the closure?

The contractors will be working from 7am to 6pm seven days a week during the road closure. This will allow the works to be completed as soon as possible and minimise the impact of weather delays on the programme by working at times with traditionally better weather.

What can I do to minimise disruption to my travel?

We are currently consulting with affect bus operators regarding alternative/replacement bus routes to aid travel around the closure. More information will be provided in due course. An alternative mode of transport to consider is travelling by rail using services between Newtown and Machynlleth. Working with partners in Powys County Council, some temporary weight restrictions will be introduced on county roads in the vicinity of the A470 works in order to deter motorists from seeking out alternative diversion routes not suitable for their vehicles. The diversion route signposted is the shortest possible alternative route utilising similar or better classes of road (A roads in the case). This ensures that all vehicles – in particular HGVs – can negotiate the route safely.

What financial support is available for people and businesses who are going to be affected by the closure of the A470?

There is no statutory compensation for people or businesses that are affected by the road closure. Every effort has been made to minimise the disruption to journeys.