Residents of Llwydcoed are facing increasing traffic congestion as the long-awaited Aberdare Bypass project, which was initially promised to coincide with the dualling of the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road, is now set to begin construction in 2026.
Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) Council is currently in the process of preparing a tender to secure a contractor for the £50 million project. The Cynon Gateway, a 1.2km link road, will connect the A4059 Aberdare Bypass east of Penywaun to a new roundabout at Croesbychan, which was built as part of the A465 upgrade.
The scheme has been delayed due to land ownership complexities, environmental considerations, and infrastructure constraints. The proposed route crosses a mix of private and council-owned land, agricultural areas, and protected habitats, including the Tir Mawr A Dderi Hir, Llwydcoed SSSI, and woodland. Additionally, the bypass will intersect disused railway lines and ancient monument remains, further complicating the project.
The detailed design phase is scheduled to begin in autumn 2025, with construction expected to commence in summer 2026. The entire project is anticipated to be completed between 2028 and 2030.
Meanwhile, Llwydcoed residents are expressing frustration over the increased traffic flow through their village, caused by delays in the bypass project. The bypass aims to reduce congestion and improve connectivity between Aberdare and the A465, but until construction begins, local communities will continue to bear the brunt of traffic issues.
As RCT Council moves forward with procurement, they are seeking input from contractors on cost-saving innovations, environmental impact reductions, and risk mitigation strategies. The project’s final design and contract structure remain under review.
With delays pushing the start date further back, residents and commuters remain eager for progress on a bypass that was promised years ago as a critical infrastructure improvement for the region.
Taken on 13 March 2025, these images show the progress of the construction work along Section 5&6 of the A465 between Hirwaun and Dowlais Top.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=983464723892644&set=pcb.983465290559254
https://www.facebook.com/A465Section5and6
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