The major rebuilding of a flood-damaged culvert in Llwydcoed, Wales, is due for completion within the next few weeks depending on weather conditions.

Extensive repair work to stablise sections of the B4276 and the massive culvert below the surface have proved a major undertaking following the adverse weather conditions in September.

As soon as the damaged section of the culvert downstream is repaired the carriageway itself will be reinstated and the road totally reopened by the end of November.

But the works remain dependent on whether poor weather interrupts the renewal work, which is being undertaken in the existing stream and is subject to fluctuating levels, especially during periods of heavy rain.


Where heavy rainfall has been forecast or following heavy rainfall, works will be suspended to ensure the safety of all personnel working within the culvert and will not recommence until water level has subsided to a safe level and deemed safe for personnel to re-enter.

Staff from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Highways and Streetcare imposed a strict three-tonne weight limit on the highway from Bavistock's Hotel to Harriet Street roundabout after a deep hole appeared during the recent flooding.

A main drainage pipe below the road collapsed, causing a void beneath the surface approximately six metres long, five metres wide and four metres deep - somewhere in the region of the size of three minibuses - across the carriageway.

Works are ongoing to totally replace the section of the collapsed culvert, the strengthening of substantial sections of the masonry arch and rebuilding of internal walls and access chamber. Once these works are completed, reconstruction of the disturbed road surface and surrounding areas will commence.

Whilst the highway reconstruction works are being carried out concurrent works will be undertaken to strengthen other badly damaged sections of the culvert. During all of the works the existing three tonnes weight limit will continue to be enforced, which at least allows light traffic to continue to use the road.

(CD/JM)