The staggering £19m that has been invested since 2011 will see even more money secured for 2013/14 – making this scheme one of the largest in Wales and further showing the Council’s commitment to investing in the infrastructure within the County Borough, despite extensive budget cuts.

Over 140 miles of highway have already been resurfaced thanks to Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s multi-million-pound scheme and more extensive works have now begun in Llwydcoed, Aberdare.

Almost £300,000 is being invested in the area to address issues along the B4276 Merthyr Road between the A465 at Baverstocks to Cwmynysminton Road. The works aim to repair the drainage system, strengthen and surface dress sections of the carriageway and carry out associated repairs to the kerbing. Local Ward Members from Llwydcoed - Councillor Anne Crimmings, Councillor John Davies and Councillor Sharon Rees have been keen to see this area benefit from the scheme.

Phase 1 of the works will see drainage works and strengthening of the road near Drift Houses and phase 2 will see strengthening the road near Tre Ifor and surface dressing of the highways.

Councillor Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member for Frontline Services, said:

"The Council has recognised the concerns expressed by the public at the damage caused from the harsh winters we have experienced and it is for that very reason we are once again investing in our roads during 2013/14 and beyond.

“Our significant investment of £19m since 2011 has already made a substantial difference to residents and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to investing in the infrastructure within the County Borough.

“The investment in Llwydcoed that is now underway will once again see motorist benefiting from this successful scheme that is improving highways up and down the County Borough.”

Councillor Anne Crimmings, Local Ward Member for Llwydcoed, added: “I am pleased that these much needed works have begun in Llwydcoed and I know that they will greatly benefit motorists in the area. This stretch of highway is very well used by both small and large vehicles and this does have an affect on the road especially during the severe winters that we experience.”

The 140miles that have already been covered by the scheme is the equivalent of travelling the whole of Wales from North to South from Wrexham to Pontyclun!

A whopping 80,000 pot holes have also been filled and patched under the scheme along with 50 footways being resurfaced and replaced.

Over 400 streets and roads have benefited from the investment ensuring that residents and motorists can see a marked improvement as they travel around the County Borough.

As the scheme drives forward the Council is urging residents to continue to support the scheme by taking heed of the temporary traffic signs e.g. no road markings, reduced speed limits and diversions whilst these essential works are carried out as it is for their safety and longer term benefit.

For further information on the Highways Investment Scheme or to report a pot hole in your area call 01443 425001 or visit www.rctcbc.gov.uk/highwaysinvestment