Montgomeryshire MS, Russell George has challenged the First Minister to intervene on A470 Telerddig traffic disruption.
Russell George MS has raised serious concerns about the ongoing disruption caused by the temporary A470 road closure at Talerddig. The road was closed for repair work to be undertaken and is due to remain closed until 11th April. The MS has asked the First Minister to intervene to improve coordination between transport agencies to minimise the impact on local communities.
During First Ministers Questions this week (11/02/2025), Mr George highlighted the significant inconvenience caused by the 70-mile diversion. Mr George highlighted his proposals for 24/7 working or overnight only work to allow the road to remain open during the day, and alternative temporary diversions along the trunk road network, all of which were rejected. Mr George has asked for an update, and whether works are likely to be completed before 11th April.
Traffic Wales website confirms that direct bus services between Machynlleth and Newtown are suspended, advising passengers to use Transport for Wales (TfW) rail services. However, Network Rail has since announced a 16-day closure on the Aberystwyth to Shrewsbury rail line in March into April, creating further travel disruptions with no clear alternative plans in place.
Mr George also raised concerns over the lack of a transport plan for students travelling from Talerddig and Carno to Machynlleth, who rely on the rail service to attend school, whilst the school bus in not able to run due to the road closure. With both road and rail links disrupted, students currently have no means of getting to school, leaving families in limbo.
The Senedd Member has asked the Welsh Government to reassess the current approach, prioritise faster completion of roadworks, and establish better coordination between transport agencies.
Commenting on the situation, Mr George said:
"The handling of this road closure has been unacceptable, with little to no coordination between the Welsh Government, Transport for Wales, and Network Rail. Residents, businesses, commuters, and students are now left facing severe travel difficulties, with no clear solutions in place.
''The 70-mile road diversion has made travelling hard enough, but now rail works mean that travel is impossible for some.
‘’The Government website encourages people to use the Transport for Wales Services. Last week, Network Rail announced a 16-day rail line closure in March into April and encouraged people to use the bus services, even though there are no direct bus services due to the road closure. There has been a lack of co-ordination between agencies.
‘’I am urging the First Minister to intervene and ensure that a proper contingency plan is put in place as a matter of urgency."