Countdown to bypass opening draws nearer

The countdown to the opening of the Newtown bypass is reaching ribbon-cutting time with motorists allowed on to the road by Thursday lunchtime.

Welsh Transport Minister Ken Skates will be joined by officials and dignitaries from the area for the official opening at around 11am on Thursday before motorists are able to use the road soon after.

"The bypass is a significant development in Mid Wales and will improve safety, relieve traffic congestion through the town and ensure better access to jobs and services," said a Welsh Government statement today.

Meanwhile, as reported by MyNewtown last week, utility companies are expected to begin work on a backlog of repairs to water, telephone and gas services in the town within the next couple of weeks after being asked to refrain from any work in recent months.

Because of the increased congestion caused by roadworks on the bypass in the final stages of construction Powys County Council and the Welsh Government did not want additional work on town centre roads that would cause even more problems for residents, businesses and motorists travelling through.

Over the next few months work will also take place on improving roads and cycleways in the town as part of a strategy to improve access once the main road has been "de-trunked" as the A483.