THE first phase of work to repair the rockfall on the A40 Leys Bend is to begin at the end of the month.

The works to remove the loose debris and secure the rockface has had to be delayed due to several issues outside National Highways’ control which were discovered through its environmental surveys.

The rockfall, which occurred on February 9 this year, has also raised issues over the long-term stability of the hillside following the damage caused to the carriageway.

Specialists at National Highways along with other experts were commissioned to help develop the work programme and warned that removing the fallen rocks could lead to further rockfall and landslips.

Specialist contractors were also brought in to ensure that the slope adjacent to the landslide wouldn't be destabilised during the works. Investigations into this complex situation were extensive.

Chris Carter, National Highways project manager explained there had been a long delay to conduct this phase of work and said: “There was evidence of dormice around the rockfall site which meant that we needed to obtain a special license from Natural England ahead of the vegetation removal.

“The surveys have also shown that there's a high likelihood that bats are roosting in the surrounding area, and as such we're planning our work carefully, so our activity doesn't disturb them.

“Our work will initially focus on installing safety barriers, temporary CCTV cameras, and crossover locations ahead of the installation of the contraflow at the end of November early December.

“This is so we can do this work safely, the A40 eastbound from Dixton roundabout to Whitchurch will be closed overnight on October 29 between 9pm and 6am; Additionally, the A40 westbound from Whitchurch to the Dixton roundabout will be closed on October 30 and 31 and On November 1 and 4.

This means that the westbound carriageway will be reduced to one lane from 6am on the morning of October 31. A free recovery service will be in place during this time.

During the closures, a designated diversion route will be in place. All dates are subject to change due to operational needs or adverse weather conditions.