The decision to proceed with Section 3 of the A465 dualling scheme will see improvements to the 7.8km route which extends from the north of the A465 roundabout at Brynmawr and tie in with the previously improved A465 immediately to the west of Nant-y-Bwch junction at Tredegar.
The £150m scheme, which will help alleviate the current issues of poor visibility, lack of overtaking opportunities and accident hotspots will include:
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•upgrade the existing three lane road to a dual carriageway with grade separated free flowing junctions
•a 3km surfaced cycleway
•a rest area at Garn Lydan with extended parking, tourist information and viewpoints towards the Valleys Regional Park and Brecon Beacons National Park
Mr Sargeant said: "The A465 is a crucial artery of our transport network and the principal road link between West Wales and the Midlands.
"Dualling the Heads of the Valleys road will help improve safety, shorten travel times for commuters and businesses and contribute to the wider regeneration of the region.
"An improved Heads of the Valleys route will also play a role in tackling poverty for the region by improving links to key sites within education, health centres and jobs."
The decision to proceed with Section 3 dualling was taken by the Minister following a public inquiry in March.
Carillion were appointed contractor for the project in March 2010 and will be supported by Arup and TACP who will provide engineering and environmental consultancy services respectively.
Construction is likely to start on site at the end of 2012 with completion anticipated by 2015.
(CD/GK)
