DRIVERS are urged to be patient in the face of likely congestion as a busy west Wales road closes for repair this evening (Friday) and throughout the weekend.

A multi-agency coordination team, led by Dyfed-Powys Police, is meeting regularly to ensure that traffic management is managed effectively in preparation for the closure of the A48 in both directions between 7pm tonight (Friday October 14) to 6am Monday October 17.

The road is being closed to repair a pipeline leak underneath the carriageway that has spilled 140,000 litres of kerosene.

The police and other agencies stated that the closure will undoubtedly lead to unavoidable congestion and disruption in Carmarthen and the surrounding areas during this period.

But they added the closure is essential in order for necessary work to be carried out as quickly, effectively and safely as possible.

A traffic management plan has been agreed for the necessary diversions with extra roads policing officers, and South Wales Trunk Roads Agent (SWTRA), Carmarthenshire County Council Highways Department and other main partners have reviewed and updated existing traffic management plans.

This has incorporated feedback from the community and motorists who used the diversionary route last weekend.

These agencies will ensure that appropriate signage directing and advising motorists is at relevant and visible points along the routes.

All traffic will be diverted along the official diversion route through Llangunnor on the B4300, and there will be a reduced speed limit on this road with no overtaking.

Chief Inspector Peter Roderick of the Specialist Operations Department for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We fully appreciate the inconvenience this will cause this weekend, and we are working with our partners closely to ensure everything possible is being done to prepare for, minimise and alleviate the congestion and disruption.

"There will be increased Roads Policing Units on duty throughout this period, and the public can expect to see a visible police presence on the A48 and diversionary routes.

"We will be closely monitoring the diversionary route and the main arterial roads in the nearby vicinity. Contingencies will be in place for additional challenges that may be experienced during the closure period.”

He added: “We appeal to anyone travelling along these routes during this time to be patient, as the expected slow moving traffic will be understandably frustrating.

"Road users will need to pay particular attention to the temporary road traffic signs that will mark the diversion route as these will indicate the restrictions in place to effectively safeguard all motorists and pedestrians.

“If motorists are faced with a situation where an emergency services vehicle is trying to get through on blue lights, please take appropriate, safe action to make this possible.

"We advise that everyone plans ahead and factors in additional time to their journey. You should also question the necessity of the journey through the affected area, and avoid if possible.”

Cyclists are being asked to consider avoiding the diversion area of Llangunnor and the B4300 this weekend.

Police said: "This is an area where group of cyclists are known to gather, and set off on ‘ride-outs’ in groups, but due to the expected disruptions and traffic management plans in place for the duration of this weekend, we are asking them to consider using areas outside of the affected route during this period.

"Motorists are being asked to avoid the area if possible, and this is equally applicable to cyclists. The safety of all road users is the priority, and minimising any expected delays, therefore everyone’s co-operation and understanding is crucial."

Motorists should check for updates on Traffic Wales and local radio stations and follow Dyfed-Powys Police and partners on Twitter and Facebook.