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The second phase of work to resolve a number of landslip issues along the A488 Hope Valley will be carried out from 30 June to 22 August [2025].
During this phase of works slope stabilisation work will be completed on slips 1, 2, 3 and 4, along with recently identified kerbing and drainage work to redirect the surface water.
Due to the narrow nature of the road, and to ensure that the work is carried out safely and on time, there will be a 24-hour road closure, seven days a week during the work.
There will be no access for through traffic and a signed diversion route in place. Depending on their vehicle type road users may be able to choose an alternative route.
Gatemen at closure points will enable access for residents with homes within the closure, when safe to do so.
During the closure Minsterley Motors will be providing a shuttle bus service due to the usual 553 service being disrupted. The shuttle will run between Bishop’s Castle and Plox Green in accordance with the timetable. Stops between Plox Green and Hemford Junction won’t be served during the closure.
This overview map shows the work areas and locations of the land slips.
Tom Dainty, Shropshire Council’s deputy Cabinet member for highways and environment, said:
“This an important and much-needed scheme and I want to thank people in advance for their patience and understanding while this work is carried out and the road is closed. We will make sure that the road is reopened as soon as possible upon completion of the work.”
Heather Kidd, Leader of Shropshire Council and councillor for Chirbury and Worthen, said:
“I’m delighted that this work has been organised relatively quickly. This is a vital route from the south of the County to Shrewsbury for hospital visits, College, shopping and more. It is essential that HGVs use the diversion routes and not attempt the single track unsuitable roads around this closure, as that will cause chaos.”
The A488 at Hope Valley has experienced slope stabilisation problems with slopes on three sections of the road slipping towards the river. Currently there are three sets of temporary traffic lights in place for the safety of the travelling public, and to ensure that the road remains passable.
Phase 1 of the work was carried out in March/April 2025 and included the clearance of vegetation and trees, detailed assessments of the highway drainage system, work on the local ditches and culverts, and a detailed assessment of the slopes within the closure area to ascertain the full extent of work required in phase 2.
The work is being carried out by Shropshire Council, together with its partners Kier and WSP.
All planned roadworks are subject to change. Any changes will be displayed on the yellow advanced warning sign and on the One Network website.
For more information – including maps and photos – visit the Shropshire Council website by following this link – A488 Hope Valley | Shropshire Council
