Future Valleys consortium, the concessionaire of A465 Heads of the Valleys sections 5 and 6 dualling project in Wales, has achieved financial close. The consortium consists of Meridiam together with the Irish company Roadbridge and the Welsh company Alun Griffiths.

The scheme of the PPP project comprises the upgrading of sections 5 and 6 of the A465, 17.7km of road between Dowlais Top, Merthyr Tydfil and Hirwaun, to standard dual carriageway (four-lane highway). It also involves the construction of 2.2km of road off the A465 (1.4km from Hirwaun to Trewaun and 0.8km from Taff Fechan to Gurnos Farm), six full movement grade-separated junctions along the road sections, 35 widened or constructed bridges, 41 culverts and 40 retaining walls, as well as the operation and maintenance of the upgraded A465 segment.

The estimated budget for the project amounts to EUR 653 million (US$ 763.64 million) and has a term extending until May 2025. As well as improving Wales’ mobility infrastructure, the A465 road PPP will support economic growth and community benefits in the region.  This vital route for business, tourism as well as local residents, will also facilitate economic regeneration of the region by improving accessibility while reducing journey time.