Commenting on a letter to Assembly Members from the Minister for Local Government & Communities confirming that he envisages the westbound Brynglas Tunnel reopening “before the demands of next week’s commuter travel commences”, Byron Davies AM, Shadow Minister for Transport said:
“We welcome the Minister’s assurance that the westbound tunnel could reopen during the weekend to bring an end to the travel chaos and misery caused by this accident.
“We appreciate the hardwork and professionalism of the team who are working around the clock to reopen the Brynglas Tunnels, conscious of the need both for speed and safety.
“Why it is currently difficult to estimate the damage the prolonged tunnel closure is having on the Welsh economy, we know it is hurting hauliers, businesses, commuters and small tourist operators at the height of the tourist season.
“It is of genuine regret that Welsh Labour Ministers failed to invest during the years of plenty in an M4 relief road to give Wales a transport infrastructure fit for the future.”
William Graham, AM for South Wales East, who has been fighting for an M4 relief road since his time as a Newport City Councillor in the mid-1990s, said:
“The fact that the main gateway into Wales is now down to one lane is deterring holidaymakers who could otherwise be on their way to Pembrokeshire, the Gower or other holiday destinations in South, Mid or West Wales.
Labour’s failure to invest in an M4 relief road when funding was in plentiful supply has cost the Welsh economy dear.
“While we welcome improvements to the Southern Distributor Road in Newport, this is in no way a realistic or efficient alternative to an M4 relief road.
“The decision to scrap the M4 relief road by the previous Labour-Plaid Assembly Government has held back Newport’s economy and has resulted in misery for thousands this week.”
