Move To Ease M4 Congestion

The Welsh Assembly has completed the purchase of the Queensway road from Corus as part of its strategy to improve congestion on the M4.

Plans will now be drawn up to see how the road, which passes through the Llanwern steel works, can be improved to allow public traffic to use the route. The aim is to upgrade the road to a dual carriageway.

The works will be part of a package of the Government’s measures to address issues such as capacity, safety and resilience along the M4 corridor.

Other work already underway include improvements to motorway junctions, the creation of more train stations and park and ride facilities throughout South East Wales and enhancements to the local road network.

Making the announcement, Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones said the M4 is a vital economic artery through South Wales.

"I announced last year that a new M4 relief road was simply too costly on economic and environmental grounds.

"Since then we have been working tirelessly to look at every option available to improve the road and address safety and capacity issues. Buying the Queensway Road is the latest step in our plans."

He said it will improve the M4’s capacity and relieve pressure on the more congested points.

"Importantly it is both sustainable and affordable. The Welsh Assembly Government will now work closely with Corus and Newport City Council to improve the road."

The purchase cost £7.7 million and the first phase of road construction is set to start immediately when the Welsh Assembly Government and Newport City Council begin to upgrade the road.

Traffic management arrangements will be put in place to carry out the necessary work and a specific communication will be issued closer to the start of the works.

(PR)