A487 Royal Oak Culvert Replacement Works Frequently Asked Questions

There will be no significant impact on these services. We have been coordinating with Dŵr Cymru for months, as their sewer and freshwater mains run through the existing culvert. Temporary measures will be in place during the culvert replacement to prevent disruptions to these services. Openreach will try to reduce disruption as much as possible. All jointing works will be done at night, which minimises the impact. Normal telephone and broadband (copper) services will typically be down for just a few minutes, and at most, an hour. However, fibre cables may take longer, up to 8 hours. Residential and business customers may experience this longer downtime based on their maintenance contracts with Openreach, who is only required to maintain service for those who pay extra. Openreach has already notified service providers about the planned works, and these providers will share the relevant details with their customers according to their contracts.

We have already been in contact with those residents who live directly adjacent to the culvert and who shall be directly affected by the works. Whilst there shall be no direct access within the vicinity of the culvert works area, and no access across the culvert, access for residents/businesses will be maintained locally. This may be east side access only for those properties on the east of the culvert, and access via the west side only (for these properties on the west side of the culvert). Whilst the A487 will be shut between Market St and Parrog Rd, access only for the properties/businesses will be available.

There are no public transport services running on Sunday during the enabling works. For the 8 week closure, we’re working with Pembrokeshire Council Transport Services, Transport for Wales and Richards Bros, to create a plan to keep services running, though possibly reduced, during the works. This will involve temporary timetable changes. School bus services will also continue during this time, although some operational changes may be needed. More details will be provided once the plan is finalised. We have also met with key stakeholders, including emergency services, to ensure everyone is aware of the closures and the alternative plans in place. Additionally, works will be limited to Sundays during the first phase of the works to help minimise disruption.

Access will be maintained for local businesses, though pedestrians may need to use an alternative route, and cars will follow local diversions. Trunk road traffic will use the designated diversion. Only one business, located very close to the culvert, will be directly affected. We’re in contact with the owner to manage this.

All works will follow the Construction Design Management regulations 2015, including dust control measures. While there will be some noise, it will be kept to a minimum and limited to daytime hours to reduce disruption.

Parking restrictions will be in place on Market Street during the A487 closure, as two-way traffic will not be possible with cars parked on the street while traffic lights are in operation.

The diversion route information will be widely publicised. Due to the limited number of trunk roads in this part of Wales, the diversion route is necessarily long. However, heavy goods vehicles must follow this route, as there are no suitable alternatives on the trunk road network. Clear signage will also indicate that large vehicles cannot fit through certain areas, directing them to the proper diversion.

During the enabling works closures are limited to Sundays to minimise impact and the main culvert replacement is taking place in January/February when tourist numbers are lower and some business close. SWTRA are working with local businesses to explore options to mitigate disruptions during the 8-week closure, such as potential drop-off points for deliveries. It’s important to note that typically, there is no compensation for businesses affected by trunk road works, as these projects are necessary to maintain safe and efficient road infrastructure and there is no legislation to support compensation for loss of trade for an authority undertaking works to fulfil their statutory duty However, businesses that are directly impacted by the works, for example due to land use during construction works, may be due compensation. Those businesses will be contacted directly and compensated accordingly.

We’re reviewing pedestrian diversion routes to ensure safety, particularly for vulnerable groups. There may also be considerations for shuttle services to assist those with mobility challenges.

Information will be published on the Traffic Wales website and social media channels. In addition, there will be a public presentation with a Q&A session to address community concerns and share information. Dates will be confirmed in due course.

Since July, South Wales Trunk Road Agent has engaged with various stakeholders, including county councillors, town councils, and Pembrokeshire Highways and Transport Services, regarding the culvert replacement project. These discussions have focused on planning and coordination to ensure that all parties are informed about the project and its potential impacts. SWTRA has also consulted with local businesses and community members to gather feedback and address concerns related to the works. This collaborative planning approach aims to minimise disruption and ensure the project's success while maintaining communication with the community throughout the process.

Yes, SWTRA has already contacted local farms to ensure they are aware of the planned works and any potential impacts. This will help minimise impact of local farm vehicles going into Newport and using inappropriate diversion routes.

Upgrading equipment for better internet services is not feasible during these works due to the complexity involved. The project will only replace existing infrastructure as per regulations.

Direct support from Business Wales is available for businesses facing uncertainties due to the road closure of the A487. This is tailored according to client need. Further information is available at businesswales.gov.wales, Business Wales' social media channels and the 03000 603000 helpline. 

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is the statutory body responsible for carrying out property valuations for business rates in Wales. It is an executive agency of HMRC and is independent of the Welsh Government. 

Temporary reductions to valuations may be made where properties are affected by severe local disruption (e.g. flooding, building or roadworks). This would be a matter for the VOA to consider, taking account of the specific circumstances. Further information, including how to report changes to the VOA, is available at: www.gov.uk/introduction-to-business-rates.