Concern remains on the length of time roadworks are taking to complete on the A458 between Welshpool & Llanfair Caereinion.
Results of a survey undertaken by Senedd Member Russell George have been forwarded to the Welsh Government in an effort to fast-track the completion date of the roadworks.
The survey followed huge frustration from local residents and business owners because of the three-month closure of the A458 at Spring Bank, Golfa, between Welshpool and Llanfair Caereinion for culvert replacement works.
Works commenced on Monday 24th January and are set to be completed the day before Easter Good Friday, April 14th. There is currently a 15-mile diversion in place.
Mr George has been pursuing an early road completion date with the Welsh Government Transport Minister Lee Waters MS.
The survey attracted 357 responses from residents giving their views. Residents raised a wide range of serious concerns about the closure including on the impact on the emergency services.
Russell George MS said:
''The response to the survey shows how important it is that the work is fast-tracked.
I have been pursuing the need to speed up the works with the Welsh Government Minister, Lee Waters MS.
There is huge concern about the loss of trade for businesses and increased journey time for local people. I’m also worried for community welfare due to the diversions in place.
357 people completed my survey and this week I have send an analysis and summary to the Minister who has already confirmed to me that 24-hour working is not being pursued.
I would like to thank Cllr Gareth Jones and Cllr Graham Breeze who I know have also been putting pressure on the authorities to compete the works and have been keeping people updated.
I have once again urged the Welsh Government to explore all options to work with the contractors to bring forward the completion date of the road works.”
County Councillor Graham Breeze said
“I have been in regular contact with the Highways Agency and am told that they are slightly ahead of schedule but that was before the bad weather hit.
I am happy that the contractors are doing all they can to meet deadlines and grateful to Mr George for continuing to press for progress.”
County Councillor Gareth Jones added
“With the longer days approaching I am urging Welsh Government to work with the contractors to maximise daylight hours.
The current diversions are having a huge impact on businesses and people within Llanfair and our wider communities.”
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