***Main town centre road to shut for two months with warning of disruption***
A significant disruption is expected in a Welsh town centre as a main road is set to close for two months. The closure of part of Hanbury Road in Pontypool is scheduled to begin on February 10, according to confirmation from Torfaen Council. The reason for the closure is to allow Welsh Water to carry out essential improvements to the sewage network. The council has acknowledged that delays are likely during this period. However, a traffic diversion plan will be put in place via the A4043 to mitigate the impact on motorists.
***Pedestrian Access Maintained***
The closure of Hanbury Road is anticipated to last for eight weeks, operating seven days a week starting from February 10. Although vehicular traffic will be affected, pedestrian access will be maintained for residents, businesses, and emergency services. Alternative pedestrian routes will also be made available to ensure accessibility within the town centre. While some facilities like the Hanbury Road toilets and town hall bus stops will be closed during the construction work, alternative public toilets can be found in Pontypool Indoor Market, Pontypool Park, and Pontypool Active Living Centre.
***Mitigating Measures and Council Support***
The Torfaen Council has been proactive in addressing the potential challenges posed by the road closure. The council’s school transport team is in communication with schools that may be impacted by the temporary shutdown of Hanbury Road. In a strategic move, council cabinet members previously approved the use of UK Shared Prosperity Fund money to cover the costs of the sewage network improvements. This initiative is part of a broader scheme aimed at enhancing the town centre infrastructure, contributing to the overall regeneration of Pontypool.
***Council’s Commitment to Revitalization***
Councillor Joanne Gauden, executive member for economy, skills, and regeneration, emphasised the council’s dedication to revitalising Pontypool’s town centre. She highlighted the necessity of addressing a capacity issue within the sewerage network that could potentially hinder the area’s development and regeneration projects in the future. While acknowledging the significant impact of the temporary road closure on the community, Gauden underscored the council’s commitment to breathing new life into Pontypool’s town centre for the benefit of residents, businesses, and the broader borough.
***Public Response***
Residents and businesses in Pontypool are encouraged to plan ahead and make accommodations for the upcoming road closure. With the town’s Civic Centre and Glantorvaen Road multi-storey car park remaining open, alternative routes and facilities have been identified to minimise inconvenience. By offering pedestrian-friendly options and maintaining critical services during the construction period, the council aims to alleviate disruptions and ensure a smooth transition throughout the two-month road closure.
***Stay Updated***
To stay informed on developments related to the road closure and other news stories, residents are encouraged to subscribe to the WalesOnline newsletter for timely updates. While the closure of Hanbury Road may present challenges in the short term, the long-term benefits of infrastructure improvements and town centre revitalisation are poised to create a more vibrant and resilient community in Pontypool.