DRIVERS and residents living near Merlin's Bridge are reminded that essential work to replace Pembroke Road railway bridge will be completed later this month.

As part of a £4.25m upgrade project, Network Rail engineers will demolish the existing railway bridge deck - which carries the South Wales Main Line - and install a new, more resilient structure as part its railway upgrade plan to improve the reliability of the railway.

The 80-year-old bridge deck requires replacing as it is nearing the end of its lifespan.

To ensure the core work is carried out as efficiently and as safely as possible, part of Pembroke Road will require a short, temporary closure between the railway bridge and Merlins Bridge Welfare Hall.

The road will be closed to through traffic and pedestrians from 8pm on Friday, January 18 until 6pm on Monday, January 21.

Clay Lane will also be temporarily closed to all through traffic during this time.

The official diversion route will be fully signposted for Pembroke Road, and motorists are advised to allow additional time for their journeys.

A courtesy shuttle bus service will be in operation for pedestrians and cyclists during the essential work.

A bus replacement service will be in operation between Whitland and Milford Haven for rail passengers on Saturday, January 19 and Sunday, January 20 and passengers are advised to check with their train operator before they travel.

The replacement of Milford Road railway bridge will also take place next month.

The A4076 at Milford Road railway bridge will be closed from 7pm on Friday 15 until 6am on Monday 18 February.

Residents and local businesses who want to find out more about the work to the bridges are invited to attend drop-in events on Thursday, January 10 and Thursday, January 31 from 3pm to 6pm at the Merlins Bridge Welfare Hall, Pembroke Road, SA61 1JW.

For more information visit networkrail.co.uk/merlins-bridge