The local MP and AM for Montgomeryshire have called today (28th November) a milestone day for Mid Wales as the Draft Orders for the Newtown bypass scheme are announced.
The Draft Orders confirm the route and the land needed for the construction of the bypass, with construction due to start next summer and the project completed by the end of 2017.
Russell George, AM for Montgomeryshire, said:
“I am delighted that the Welsh Government has confirmed that the construction of the Newtown bypass will start next summer.
“It is an important development for residents, businesses and visitors.
“It will improve journey times and bring new opportunities for businesses and visitors, providing economic development for the town and the wider Mid Wales region.”
“It is a much needed infrastructure project which will benefit not only Mid Wales but the whole of Wales.”
All residents along the route and those within 100 metres of the route have today been sent an information pack on how they can raise concerns with the Welsh Government and the contractors, Alun Griffiths Ltd.
Glyn Davies, MP for Montgomeryshire added:
“Both Russell and I have been supporting a number of residents who are affected by the proposed bypass, and I would encourage people to contact us if they have any issues or concerns they believe we can help them with.
“The issue of the Newtown bypass has been rumbling on since 1949. At that time, the then Chamber of Trade and Urban District Council protested against a proposed bypass.
“Ever since, the bypass has been the subject of much discussion and after 65 years, we are now finally in a position to alleviate the horrendous traffic congestion we have to put up with on a daily basis following the publication of the Draft Orders."
There will be a further two day Public Exhibition in Newtown on Monday 8th December from 12.00 noon – 8.00pm and Tuesday 9th December from 10.00am – 6.00pm at the Elephant & Castle Hotel. Any issues which the Welsh Government and contractors fail to address will have to go to Public Inquiry, expected to take place next Spring, if required.