Ystrad Rhondda Railway Station users are advised that the removal of the main footbridge between Nant Gwyddon Close and Brook Street starts from September 8, requiring temporary pedestrian arrangements locally.
The work is part of a major scheme to replace Brook Street footbridge, which has reached the end of its design life. The replacement scheme is funded by the Council and Welsh Government, with Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd progressing work on site. The complex project must contend with the day-to-day operation of the railway station, and the presence of the river nearby.
Progress throughout the summer has seen several of the new footbridge foundations built, as well as drainage works that were able to be carried out with the bridge still open. In July 2022, the Council provided a progress report which outlined the next phases of the project – the closure of the station car park (August 1) and removal of the bridge ramp to the northbound platform (August 8) – in preparation for the main footbridge’s removal in September.
The next phase of work is now confirmed, requiring the main bridge to close from Thursday, September 8, to begin the process of its removal.
The first activity will see the old bridge spans lifted out, making it necessary for the structure to be closed to pedestrians. Access to the northbound platform will be maintained via the stepped station footbridge available from Brook Street, or from the route via the leisure centre and the football fields.
During train operating hours, the contractor is providing a free shuttle bus to anyone who needs to travel between Gelli Industrial Estate, Ton Pentre Railway Station and Ystrad Rhondda Railway Station, in both directions. This service is available for everyone – regardless of whether they intend to use the train. Details, including shuttle bus timetables, will be available on the Transport for Wales website.
An alternative route for pedestrians will be signposted, but the route might be unsuitable for some residents – for example, wheelchair users. Residents who cannot use the stepped station footbridge are advised to remain on the train to Ton Pentre, and use the free shuttle bus to return to Ystrad Rhondda.
Elsewhere within the works area, the new bridge ramp foundations will continue to be constructed by the contractor, while the railway station car park will remain closed at this time in order to safely position a crane.
For further information about these temporary arrangements, please call Transport for Wales’ customer helpline via phone on 0333 3211 202 or via WhatsApp on 07790 952507. Alternatively, Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd’s public liaison officer for the Brook Street scheme is available by calling 0330 0412 183, or via email on [email protected].
The scheme to replace Brook Street footbridge at Ystrad Rhondda Railway Station is one of many schemes included within the Council’s Highways Capital Programme for 2022/23, within a £5.65m investment for structures. Delivering repairs to Imperial Bridge in Porth, replacing the Nant Cwm Parc Cantilever while strengthening Institute Bridge in Treorchy, and replacing the Llanharan Railway Footbridge, all represent priority ongoing schemes.
