Road closures have been scheduled in Cardiff as part of the ongoing Metro electrification works. The electrification works, aimed at enhancing the railway infrastructure, will lead to the closure of several footways and roads in the city. Transport for Wales (TfW) has announced the dates for these closures, stating that Highfield Road and Heath Halt overbridges will be affected. The closures are planned for Saturday, February 1, and Sunday, February 2, to facilitate the testing of electric overhead power lines in the area.
The Highfield Road bridge, a vital transport link, will be closed for both vehicles and pedestrians during the specified dates. Similarly, the Heath Halt bridge will be closed to vehicles only. To minimise disruptions, TfW will implement diversions from 8 am to 8 pm on February 1, and from 9 am to 8 pm on February 2. Additionally, TfW will operate a shuttle bus service between the bus stops on Allensbank Road and Lake Road West to assist commuters during this period of closure.
In addition to the road closures, several footbridges and level crossings will also be impacted by the electrification works. Among the affected locations are Pentrebach Road in Rhiwbina and Station Road in Llanishen. TfW’s notice on the closures emphasises that there will be traffic management measures in place during the specified closure times to ensure the safe passage of single-lane traffic along the affected bridges.
The ongoing testing work forms part of TfW’s broader initiative to electrify the Coryton line and the Rhymney line, which connects Caerphilly to Cardiff Queen Street. These electrification efforts are integral to the South Wales Metro project, which aims to enhance public transport services in the region through the integration of buses, trams, and trains. The project involves electrifying 170km of track, including lines serving Aberdare, Coryton, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhymney, and Treherbert, alongside station upgrades and new station developments.
As the electrification works progress, TfW issues a safety warning to the public regarding the dangers posed by overhead power lines. The notice highlights the lethal 25,000-volt electricity carried by the overhead wires, cautioning against any proximity to the structures. It also warns against railway trespassing, especially due to upcoming tests of new electric trains across the network, stressing the need for caution and adherence to safety protocols at all times near railway infrastructure.
In conclusion, the upcoming road closures in Cardiff are part of the ongoing Metro electrification works that aim to modernise and enhance the railway network in South Wales. These closures, though essential for infrastructure improvements, may cause disruptions to commuters, necessitating the implementation of alternative transport routes and heightened awareness of safety precautions in the affected areas. By prioritising safety and efficiency, TfW continues to progress towards a more integrated and efficient public transport system through the South Wales Metro project.