A ROCK face that has caused concern in a market town since a rockfall seven years ago is set to undergo major works, with the road to be closed for nearly two months.
Herefordshire Council has appointed a contractor to carry out major engineering, environmental and safety improvements at the Wilton rock face alongside the B4260 in Wilton, Ross-on-Wye.
The scheme, which is designed to reduce the risk of future rockfalls and improve the appearance of the site, is due to begin on October 19 and continue until December 11.
Council bosses say providing a long-term solution at the location has been a priority for both Ross Town Council and local residents.
The works will include removing vegetation from the base of the rock face, installing new drainage infrastructure, constructing a rock trap and building a concrete block wall with a stone-facing finish.
The improvements are intended to help contain any future rockfalls while ensuring the existing infrastructure blends more naturally with the surrounding rock face.
The site has been a concern since a rockfall in 2019 forced the closure of Wilton Road and led to temporary safety barriers being installed before the road was reopened. Further rockfalls have since been caught by those barriers, and the road has undergone several closures while works have been carried out.
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To allow the works to be completed safely, Wilton Road will be fully closed between both junctions with Wye Street throughout the project. Royal Parade will also be shut for the duration of the scheme.
Signed diversion routes will be put in place and advance warning signs installed to alert residents, businesses and motorists. Pedestrian access will be maintained wherever possible.
The council is contacting nearby homes and businesses ahead of the work starting and is encouraging firms to make alternative arrangements for deliveries if required.
The timing of the project has been planned to meet ecological requirements, with work taking place outside sensitive periods for nesting birds and bats, a council spokesperson said.
Drivers are being warned to expect disruption while the scheme is carried out and are being urged to plan journeys in advance and allow extra time.
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