Site investigations will take place at the Llanharan Railway footbridge next week, requiring a temporary change to pedestrian arrangements – as the Council continues to work towards delivering a replacement structure.
The footbridge remains subject to an ongoing emergency closure after a recent inspection found its condition to be deteriorating. The footbridge closure has resulted in a lane being brought out of use on the road bridge immediately adjacent to it (carrying the A473 Bridgend Road) – enabling a temporary footway to be established within the closed lane of the carriageway.
The next steps toward replacing the bridge include site investigations from Monday, November 29, which will be completed over six days of work until December 4. A CCTV survey will then follow on Monday, December 6.
The traffic management layout will be modified to enable the works, but the road will remain open to vehicles under the current two-way traffic lights.
However, pedestrian access across the road bridge cannot be maintained each daytime, so a diversion via the alternative station footbridge crossing and Chapel Road will be implemented and signposted in each direction. The arrangements will then revert back to the current setup during each night.
Councillor Andrew Morgan, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Cabinet Member with responsibility for Highways and Transportation, said: “The Council has previously committed to delivering a replacement footbridge at this location after an inspection revealed the extent of its damage. We are currently working towards delivering this as a priority scheme as soon as possible, liaising with key stakeholders such as Network Rail.
“The upcoming investigatory work is required to confirm the suitability for crane lifting operations, which will be needed to replace the footbridge. The work will also confirm the design of the foundations of the new structure, with work to install the new bridge on course to begin during the New Year.
“I’d like to thank residents and road users for their continued patience and cooperation with the ongoing traffic management at this location. Next week’s site activity is not expected to cause any further disruption to road users, while pedestrians will be directed to the alternative bridge crossing in the daytime.”
