£2 Billion Heads of the Valleys Road Officially Opens Wales

The £2 billion A465 Heads of the Valleys road upgrade in South Wales has officially been completed, marking the end of a project that spanned over two decades and was described as one of the UK's most technically challenging road schemes. The final section, from Dowlais to Hirwaun, includes 17.7 kilometers of new dual carriageway, over 14 kilometers of active travel routes, 32 bridges, 38 culverts, and 28 retaining walls, aimed at improving connectivity across South Wales and beyond to the English Midlands and ports serving Ireland and Europe. The Welsh Government highlighted that the project created approximately 2,200 jobs, with about half filled by locals from disadvantaged or long-term unemployed backgrounds, and invested around £400 million in the local supply chain. Environmental efforts included planting 120,000 trees and creating habitats for local wildlife, alongside educational initiatives engaging thousands of pupils in STEM activities and apprenticeships. While government officials praised the project's benefits for transport, safety, and regional economic growth, opposition voices expressed concerns over the prolonged timeline and high costs, calling for lessons to be learned for future infrastructure investments. Overall, the upgrade is seen as a significant infrastructure achievement that will enhance the quality of life and economic prospects in the Valleys and surrounding regions.