Neath Port Talbot Council has released a statement about the A4069 at Amman Road in Lower Brynamman being temporarily closed.

Vehicles are unable to pass through a section near the road’s junction near Glyn Road and 250 metres northward for two weeks.

The closure comes after a ground collapse was caused by disused mine workings.

Traffic is being diverted along the A4069, A4068, A4067 and A474.

Neath Port Talbot Council posted on Facebook: “HGVs and through traffic are being urged to use the signed diversion route following the temporary road closure of the A4069 at Amman Road in Lower Brynamman.

"The closure is needed to allow the Coal Authority to put a solution in place to ensure the long-term stability of the road following a ground collapse caused by historical coal mine workings beneath the surface.

"Vehicles are unable to pass a section of the A4069 Amman Road, starting from its junction with Glyn Road and extending approximately 250 meters northward.

"A diversion for traffic is via the A4069, A4068, A4067, and A474. Signs are in place to guide you through alternative routes.

"Access for pedestrians and emergency vehicles will remain open.

"Household waste and recycling collections in the area will continue as scheduled. However, there may be delays in the collection times.

For updates on bus service changes, visit Traveline Cymru or call 0800 464 0000.”

Locals have expressed their frustration at the road closure and at the fact that homes were given planning permission near the site of the collapse.

Colette Ervine said: "You can urge as much as you want, no one is listening, and don't get me started on people in SUVs or new cars that can't reverse or pull in properly to let people through."

David Carwyn Jones added: "I can't understand why planning consent was given to the new houses that have been built right by the road closure without a mine survey taking place.

"Surely this problem should have been picked up then and not only now have come to light."

Sandra Parry was relieved that the incident was not worse, saying: "That's a lucky escape for the houses nearby. How many more are there?"