A structural defect discovered on the Clydach Gorge Viaduct has led to a temporary lane closure on the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road westbound between Clydach and Brynmawr.
The issue was identified during a routine inspection. The Welsh Government has introduced a lane closure, and deputy minister for transport Mark Hooper said repair work was progressing. Restrictions will be lifted once work is completed.
Concerns raised by MS Peter Fox
Member of the Senedd for Sir Fynwy Torfaen Peter Fox has asked for further information on the defect and a timetable for repairs. He has also called for a full assessment of the road between Gilwern and Brynmawr to check for further defects.
Fox said: "The A465 is constantly talked up by Welsh Government as a success for Wales and our valley communities but I am afraid the Blackrock section has once again put doubt on this. This section was over three years delayed, £100m overbudget, and has had countless snagging issues."
He added that he had raised concerns last year about the road surface condition, a lack of hard shoulder with the former First Minister, and now this latest defect.
History of the A465 project
The A465 has been the most expensive road construction project in Wales, transformed into a dual carriageway over 23 years and finally opening in June 2025. The section between Clydach and Brynmawr opened in November 2021, costing £336m for the five-mile stretch.
