CONCERNS have been raised around alleged changes to the project converting the A465 Heads of the Valleys road into a dual carriageway and the way road closures are being advertised.

The latest stage of the long-running scheme at a four-mile stretch of the busy road between Gilwern and Brynmawr began in early 2015 and is currently predicted to be completed by next spring.

But, speaking in the Senedd earlier this week, Monmouth AM Nick Ramsay said he had met with residents who said they were concerned about the way the scheme was being managed.

“The local impression is that road closures, which are sometimes necessary, are happening without the statutory notification that is required by law and modifications are being made to the design of the scheme without the usual consultation process,” he said.

“One example is that an important flyover at Gilwern is behind schedule because of a water main issue that local people believe should have been sorted out a long time ago and is yet to be resolved.”

Addressing finance secretary Mark Drakeford he added: “We accept the need for this project long term, but can you look at the financial oversight that the Welsh Government is applying to the Heads of the Valleys scheme, specifically the Clydach Gorge part but the rest of the scheme as well, to make sure that you are achieving your aim of value for money?

“At the moment the perception, at least in my constituency locally, is that there is slippage beyond what is acceptable and that value for money is not being achieved.”

Mr Drakeford replied: “I can give him (Mr Ramsay) an assurance that we are determined to do everything in the best possible way.

“In terms of the financial management of other aspects of the dualling, I'll look carefully at the points that he has raised this afternoon.”

South Wales East AM Mohammad Asghar also raised concerns over the cost and timescale of the project. Last month it was announced transport secretary Ken Skates had ordered a review of the scheme, leading to concerns it was running over budget and behind schedule.

Addressing Mr Skates, Conservative AM Mr Asghar said: “Work on this section of the road was due to be completed in spring 2019, but is likely to be delayed, resulting in additional costs, not only to public finances, but also to local companies, some of which may be forced to cease trading in the area, which we desperately need.”

Mr Skates replied the issue had been caused by the topography of the area itself, meaning contractor Costain had found it “far more difficult to deliver than they'd originally envisaged and, indeed, planned for”.

Costain’s project director for the project Bruce Richards said: “The construction programme is extremely complex and challenging, maintaining live traffic throughout our working areas is not always practicable.

“Full road closures are required to facilitate construction, whilst ensuring the safety of the travelling public and our workforce.

“I am confident that we are compliant with the legal requirement placed upon us for the closures.

“We do our very best to inform residents and the travelling public well in advance of such closures, using social media channels, mass email alerts and through the post, this is in addition to hard and electronic roadside signs.”