PHASE two of the works to stabilise a landslide on the A484 in Cwmduad has begun following the recovery of a lorry from the river below.

Carmarthenshire County Council is leading the operation to clear the site and re-open the road for traffic between Carmarthen and Newcastle Emlyn, following the landslide in October which claimed the life of 21-year-old Corey Sharpling.

Phase one, which started before Christmas, created a safe zone for the recovery of a lorry that was swept in to the river during Storm Callum.

That recovery took place earlier today (Monday, January 14, 2019).

Phase two, to permanently stabilise the embankment, involves complex drainage and geotechnical works.

The highway structure will then be assessed before any indication can be given as to when the road will re-open.

The council has thanked the community and commuters for their patience while site assessments and works have been underway.

Ruth Mullen, director of environment for Carmarthenshire County Council, said: “We are now making progress in what has been a highly complex operation and legal process between the council, partner agencies and the landowner.

“We fully appreciate the impact this has had on the community and we wish to reiterate that we have worked without delay to undertake site investigations in the immediate aftermath of the landslide, along with clearance and construction works to make the area safe.

“We are working as quickly as we can to re-open the road as soon as possible, and would like to thank those affected most sincerely for their patience.”