RCT Council has given an update on the scheme to rectify river wall damage at Blaen-y-Cwm Road – with a significant length of the structure previously repaired and a contractor for the final works in the process of being appointed.
Significant sections of the structure, which supports the road, were damaged by the unprecedented weather of Storm Dennis in February 2020. Damaged sections have been cordoned off and monitored closely, and traffic lights have remained in place with Blaen-y-Cwm Road operating with one lane at this location. The road is the only access for motorists into and out of Blaencwm.
Phase one of the repair scheme got underway in September 2020, and has successfully repaired and repointed a significant length of the wall. The Council previously reported that a second phase of work would be needed in April 2021 to complete the work and enable the traffic lights to be removed.
The Council is currently evaluating tenders for the second phase of work, and will appoint a successful contractor shortly. Preparatory works will begin on site during early April 2021, with the main works following from mid-May to adhere to restrictions in place relating to working within the river during the autumn and winter months.
Councillor Andrew Morgan, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Cabinet Member with responsibility for Highways and Transportation, said: “This repair scheme at Blaen-y-Cwm Road is one of the priority locations to rectify significant damage sustained in Storm Dennis. The Council delivered the first phase of repairs to a significant length of the wall during the autumn, before the winter restrictions on working within the river came into force – and the second phase will start as soon as the restrictions come to an end in May.
“The Council this week provided a detailed update on the significant flood damage repairs going on across the County Borough, in a progress report to coincide with the one-year anniversary of Storm Dennis. The Council welcomed new £4.4m funding from Welsh Government to help with the ongoing work to repair walls, culverts, roads and bridges across Rhondda Cynon Taf – which we remain absolutely committed to completing.
“A contractor will soon be appointed to carry out the second phase of repairs at Blaen-y-Cwm Road, with works set to get underway in April. The Council will communicate further updates in due course. I’d like to thank local residents and road users for their continued cooperation, as we understand the necessary traffic lights are disruptive to the community. The upcoming work will complete the scheme and allow the road to open to two-way traffic.”
