Maintenance of the footbridge near A4119 Williamstown Roundabout

RCT Council will undertake the next phase of planned maintenance repairs to the footbridge near A4119 Williamstown Roundabout – requiring some traffic management and footbridge closures to carry out elements of the work.

The bridge crosses the A4119 just to the south of the roundabout, and is an important link for pedestrians within the local community. In order to future-proof the bridge, the Council completed the first element of essential repairs in September 2019 – which included a complete repainting of the structure.

The second phase of work will begin in the week commencing Monday, July 20, for six weeks. This includes the replacement of the bridge bearings, along with improving drainage to the eastern end of the structure. The Council has appointed contractor Centregreat to carry out this latest phase of work.

Traffic management, including signals and single lane closures at the roundabout, will be required in two phases (July 22-31 and August 19-28). However, there are no planned road closures associated with this scheme.

The bridge will also close to pedestrians on six nights, to replace the bridge bearings – scheduled from 8pm-6am to minimise disruption. This takes place on August 8, and from August 20-24. As there is no viable alternative route for pedestrians, the contractor will provide a taxi service to carry pedestrians from one side of the footbridge to the other (during the closure periods only).

All work associated with this scheme will adhere to social distancing guidance.

Councillor Andrew Morgan, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Cabinet Member with responsibility for Highways and Transportation, said: “The Council will shortly begin planned maintenance to the footbridge at Williamstown roundabout – with some elements of the scheme requiring traffic management and the bridge itself scheduled to close during six night shifts.

“The Council is responsible for around 1,500 structures that support our road network, from culverts to retaining walls and bridges. Ongoing projects include replacing St Albans Bridge in Blaenrhondda, and repairs to Castell Ifor Bridge in Hopkinstown and Station Street bridge in Treherbert. We also continue to make separate funding available for structures affected by Storm Dennis.

“The upcoming scheme in Williamstown will future-proof the bridge and ensure the important community link will be available for years to come. The Council will work closely with the appointed contractor to ensure disruption to local residents and road users is kept to a minimum throughout.”