Decision details

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Decision status: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key decision?: Yes

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Purpose:

To update Cabinet on the current situation regarding the A465 Heads of the Valleys Dualling Sections 5 and 6 Dowlais Top to Hirwaun.

Decisions:

The Head of Highways and Engineering updated Cabinet on the current situation regarding the A465 Heads of the Valleys Dualling Sections 5 and 6 Dowlais Top to Hirwaun, advising that such works would address congestion,  safety and capacity issues as well as providing an economic stimulus for the area.  The work would complete a dual carriageway route through the Heads of the Valleys which is of national and strategic importance, providing a critical Northern Cross valley link for the Metro and improving the resilience of the City Deal transport network.

 

Members were advised that the dualling would deliver wider economic benefits including social impact of improved accessibility, increased social inclusion, improved accessibility for tourists and the perception and attractiveness of the Heads of the Valleys as an area in which to invest.

 

The Leader commented on the positive work done to date and the meetings taken forward with Jacobs, Welsh Government and local Members in respect of the design and commented on the need for the dualling of the sections as outlined within the report.  The Leader also referenced the Aberdare bypass scheme (Cynon Gateway North) and funding with Welsh Government  and pressed that both schemes being taken forward at the same time, to avoid any time lapse between the two.

 

County Borough Councillors G Thomas and P Jarman also spoke on this item.

 

Following discussions It was noted that the Welsh Government are considering a 3 roundabout option at Croesbychan but there has been no formal release of documentation by the Welsh Government in this respect. It was confirmed that RCT would work with the Welsh Government to check that if a 3 roundabout option proceeds then the Cynon Gateway North would not be compromised by this option.

 

 

Following discussions it was RESOLVED:

 

1.    To note the proposals drawn-up by the Welsh Government to dual the existing A465 between Dowlais Top and Hirwaun.

 

2.    To note the letter of support from the Welsh Government in respect of the Council’s Cynon Gateway North (as outlined within  Appendix A of the report).

 

3.    To the Council supporting the Welsh Government’s proposals for the dualling of the A465.

 

(N.B  At the conclusion of this item, County Borough Councillors P Jarman and L Walker left the meeting.)

Publication date: 03/10/2018

Date of decision: 03/10/2018

Decided at meeting: 03/10/2018 - Cabinet

Date comes into force if not called in: 10/10/2018

Call-in deadline date: 09/10/2018

Accompanying Documents: