Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has demanded answers from Carwyn Jones AM during First Minister questions on the first day of the new Assembly term, as traffic chaos in Newtown continues to cause havoc for local residents, businesses and travellers.
Commenting, Mr Bates said:
“The unacceptable delays over the Newtown bypass are causing havoc and frustration for local residents, businesses and travellers. The imposition of a series of traffic lights on the trunk roads is creating a bottle neck with congestion choking tourism and trade in the town.
“A recent survey of traffic showed that 89% of people who regularly shop or do business in Newtown said that they were considering moving elsewhere. This is deeply worrying and a disaster for local residents and for our high street businesses – the current traffic setup is simply not working.
“The consultation on a Newtown bypass took place last year and we were promised a decision in the New Year, but we are still waiting. I have demanded answers from the First Minister over when a decision will be made and what efforts are being taken in the meantime to ease the current congestion problem.
“I was shocked that in his response the First Minister simply blamed the UK Government! Not only is this a devolved issue, but the Labour government have delayed and dithered for nearly a decade since I first put the bypass into the Transport Plan in 2000-2003, when the Liberal Democrats were in government in the Assembly.
“The Labour-Plaid Government has the power to make an announcement now on the preferred route for the bypass. They must also investigate solutions to resolve the miserable congestion in the meantime. Progress is long overdue and it is time for the Assembly Government to take responsibility and take action and I will be keeping up the pressure until they do.”
