Full closure for part of A483 planned for viaducts inspections – diversion through Llangollen due to Newbridge landslip

“Essential works” to investigate the structural security of the Viaducts in the Dee and Ceiriog Valleys is set to take place, with part of the A483 being closed as a result.

The A483 between J1 and Halton Roundabout will be fully closed overnight for four nights, commencing on Monday 6th September at 9PM.

The final night will be Thursday 9th September, with the road being be re-opened by 6AM on the following mornings. The road will be open during the day.

The diversion route for the A483 overnight closures is via Llangollen on the A5 & A539 – appearing to be a forced choice due to the ongoing issues in Newbridge.

Although the works are not being undertaken by Wrexham Council, the lack of funding to help the resolution to the Newbridge landslip has been a topic Councillor David A Bithell, Deputy Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Environment & Transport, has been vocal on.

Today he told us, “As you are aware the A483 from time to time needs to be maintained to carry out cyclic maintenance and the Trunk Road Agency need to find an alternative routes following the closure of the B5605. This does cause significant problems for local communities in Cefn, Chirk, Trevor and they are experiencing the effects of this road closure.”

“I am really concerned on the impact of the B5605 especially now the winter is fast approaching and at a time when we do need to fast track funding for the road at Newbridge to re-open, officers are working hard to identify solutions with our special consultants. We are working with Welsh Government but so far we have no firm funding in place.”

The North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent (NMWTRA) said, “The works are being carried out in September to avoid the summer holiday season but to take advantage of relatively good weather anticipated this time of year.”

“Specialist access equipment is required to inspect the Viaduct. The viaduct is exposed to prevailing weather conditions as it carries the A483 high above the River Dee and its flood plains. The access equipment can only operate in low wind conditions.”

In the long history of poor local communications from the agency the information was circulated slightly wider today, despite apparently being public several days ago.

The details published include a Google Map (above) created by the agency, however without using the default zoom level tool, so appears as above.

If you zoom in on the map provided it gives a more useful version to those not looking from space: