THE A487 at Newport in Pembrokeshire has reopened following essential engineering work to future-proof the road and avoid long-term disruption to the community.

The key stretch of road reopened on schedule on 3 March after a defective culvert running beneath the A487 was fully replaced. The upgrade is expected to mitigate the impact of climate change and reduce the risk of emergency closures in the future.

The project involved complex engineering and close collaboration between contractors and key stakeholders, including Welsh Water, Wales & West Utilities, and Openreach. The culvert carries vital infrastructure, including water, sewage and gas pipes, as well as fibre optic telecommunications cables.

Without the repair, a collapse could have caused major disruption to services and forced an emergency closure of the road for an extended period. Localised flooding was also a potential risk.

Given the culvert’s location in the centre of Newport, care was taken to minimise disruption to local residents, businesses, and road users. A number of repair options were considered, but engineers concluded that full replacement of the structure was the only long-term solution.

Consultations were held to identify the least disruptive time of year to complete the works. With tourism vital to the area’s economy, it was agreed that the work would be carried out before the start of the season.

While the road was closed, engineers also carried out resurfacing along the affected stretch to address existing carriageway defects.

During the eight-week closure, local businesses reported a significant drop in footfall. Traders in Newport said January had been particularly challenging, with customer numbers falling sharply. Some were forced to reduce staffing levels or find creative ways to support loyal customers, including offering private parking for those with mobility issues.

Traders also expressed frustration at signage placed at Cardigan and St Clears, which they said gave the impression the entire road was shut, deterring potential visitors.

A diversion route for light vehicles was implemented locally, while heavy goods vehicles faced a considerably longer detour. Parking outside some businesses was restricted, and an increase in traffic through back roads added to the disruption.

Despite these setbacks, the town is now looking to the future. Businesses are reporting a renewed sense of optimism with the roadworks complete. Several are preparing for the busy spring and summer period, including events like Welsh Art Week, which is set to attract visitors from across the country.

Transport Minister Ken Skates said:
“I understand the disruption caused by works and I’d like to thank motorists and local residents for their patience whilst the work was taking place. However, it was vital that it was carried out at this time to ensure the road can remain open in the years to come.

“This is a beautiful part of Wales which attracts many tourists from across the UK and beyond. Therefore, it was important the work was completed before the start of the busy tourist season.

“I’d also like to thank the South Wales Trunk Road Agent and their supply chain for their hard work to ensure the project was completed on schedule whilst minimising disruption as far as possible.”