Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has taken the frustrations over traffic congestion in Newtown to the Chamber, as residents and businesses continue to suffer while they wait for an announcement by the Welsh Government on the preferred route for a Newtown bypass.
Commenting Mr Bates said:
“I’m deeply concerned about the impacts of increasing traffic congestion in Newtown. Businesses are suffering as customers are avoiding the congested town centre, instead choosing to travel further to shop and lorries are travelling through residential areas causing serious concerns over safety. A bypass has been discussed for decades and recent developments with the new Tesco store have only made the situation worse.
“Last year the Assembly Government consulted over long term solutions to Newtown’s congestion problems and we were told a decision was due in the New Year. In April I wrote to the Deputy First Minister, to be told a decision was due before summer. In June I asked for a timetable for development, to be told an announcement would be made later this year.
“The continued delays by the Welsh Government are unacceptable and it is time for the Minister to make a decision and end the frustration for residents and businesses in Newtown. I have called on the Welsh Government to take action to ensure an urgent announcement is made on the preferred route, so that plans can get underway and work can commence as soon as possible, as this cannot wait until 2014.”
