PLANS to clear a rockfall that has forced lane closures on a Herefordshire main road for months have been revealed.

A landslide hit the A40 on the Herefordshire and Monmouthshire border in February.

One lane remains closed on the eastbound carriageway, with a temporary barrier in place to stop any further rocks falling into traffic, after the dual carriageway was previously closed completely in the wake of the landslide

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Now traffic management specialists, working with the local authorities, have prepared a plan which will keep the A40 open in both directions but also give roadworkers a safe space to remove the debris and carry out more detailed surveys on the embankment at Leys Bend.

To avoid the peak tourist season and other works affecting the local road network, the debris will be removed in November and December.

The work will see a contraflow introduced while the rocks are safely removed and detailed examinations of the slope carried out. These will determine the most appropriate method to manage any long-term geotechnical risks in this area and will include a ground penetrating radar survey of the area as well as a 3D survey of the slope.

There will be some overnight closures to install the contraflow, with a clearly-signed diversion route in place, no daytime closures are planned.

The design of the remedial works will then be carried out with construction likely to begin in early 2025. Options being investigated include netting, rock bolts or a safety fence.

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National Highways route manager, Joseph Walmsley, said: “Safety has to be our priority, which is why we have had to partially close the road, but we are also determined to minimise the disruption for the local communities and road users as much as we possibly can.

“These plans will enable us to keep the road open in both directions and will take place after the busy holiday period. We are grateful to people for their patience while we have been dealing with this incident and will continue to make sure they are fully informed throughout the process.

“Please do come along to one of our information events to find out exactly what will be taking place, and when, and speak to our team about any questions or concerns you may have.”

Information events will take place on the following dates:

  • July 25, 11am to 7pm at Shire Hall, Agincourt Square, NP25 3DY
  • July 26, 10am to 4pm at Shire Hall, Agincourt Square, NP25 3DY
  • July 27, 10am to 2pm at Monnow Bridge, Monnow Street, Monmouth, NP25 5ES

 

A webpage has been set up to provide the latest updates and information about the scheme and can be found on our website here: www.nationalhighways.co.uk/A40LeysBend Sign up to receive email updates by emailing: noreplyA40WMids@nationalhighways.co.uk