More road improvements are needed in north Powys to strengthen the benefits of the Newtown bypass, according to Montgomeryshire AM, Russell George.
Mr George is calling for progress on a number of other road infrastructure projects, some of which have been in the pipeline for a number of years to ensure that Mid Wales has further opportunities to improve links with the Midlands, and other parts of Wales, in order to grow the economy of north Powys.
He said: "Earlier this year, I was delighted that the Newtown Bypass finally opened. This was a momentous occasion for Mid Wales.
"I believe that the bypass has the potential to transform the economy of towns such as Newtown, Llanidloes and Machynlleth. It has resolved local traffic congestion issues, and it is already helping to boost tourism and the wider Mid Wales economy.
"However, attention now needs to turn to other much-needed transport projects across the county and I hope we now see progress on a new Dyfi Bridge in Machynlleth after slow progress to date.
"I also firmly believe that we now need a significant road improvement scheme to improve the road between Welshpool and Shrewsbury. The lengthy delays to the repairs on the Cefn Bridge on the A458 near Trewern clearly illustrate the importance of having good road infrastructure on one of the main arteries which link Wales and England as does the need for progress on the Pant-Llanymynech bypass.
"I have also had discussions about a number of relatively small schemes, and a number of projects which could be brought forward quickly to help traffic flow and safety concerns at a number of key pinch points. These include the potential for a roundabout at the Moat Lane crossing near Caersws and the dualling of road sections by Llangurig and Llanidloes.
“Having good infrastructure is key to supporting our local economy to grow.”
Photo: Newtown bypass by Dragon UAV
