Wales’ transport minister Carl Sargeant has given the go ahead for the next section of the 7.8km route which extends from the north of the A465 roundabout at Brynmawr to tie in with the previously improved A465 immediately to the west of Nant-y-Bwch junction at Tredegar.
Sargeant said: “The A465 is a crucial artery of our transport network and the principal road link between West Wales and the Midlands.
“Dualling the Heads of the Valleys road will help improve safety, shorten travel times for commuters and businesses and contribute to the wider regeneration of the region.
“An improved Heads of the Valleys route will also play a role in tackling poverty for the region by improving links to key sites within education, health centres and jobs.”
The decision to proceed with section 3 dualling was taken by the Minister following a public inquiry in March.
Carilion were appointed contractor for the project back in March 2010 under an ECI deal and will be supported by Arup and TACP who will provide engineering and environmental consultancy services respectively.