Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has welcomed much needed clarity on the A4042 works.
It had been announced the road would be under a traffic regulation order for up to 18 months, with the works themselves set to take anywhere up to 6 months.
This understandably caused confusion and concern for locals and businesses as there was no concrete information provided, apart from the statutory traffic order.
After raising the issue with the Cabinet Secretary directly, and calling for a statement on Tuesday, Mr Fox received a response from Ken Skates confirming the order relates specifically to the temporary traffic management measures required for the Penperlleni pedestrian crossing works, which form part of a short, self-contained scheme at that location. These works typically involve a 6–9 week construction period, focused solely around the crossing.
The Cabinet Secretary advised that during this time, access for all residents and businesses will be maintained, traffic management will take the form of temporary traffic signals, with a small number of overnight closures possibly required towards the end of the project.
Mr Fox stated he would monitor the issue very closely, and encouraged everyone to keep an eye on official channels, taking the opportunity to remind people that businesses are open as normal during this time.
Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said:
“It’s disappointing that more concrete information was not provided at the same time as the traffic regulation order being issued, as it caused unnecessary worry and concern.
“Whilst the works will still cause a degree of disruption for motorists, it will hopefully be nothing compared to the implied problems the standard wording suggested.
“I am pleased this clarification has come at last, but it should not have required multiple letters, statements and putting in questions to the First Minister to receive it.
“Businesses along the road I am sure will welcome this news, and I want to reiterate the message they are firmly open for trade.”
County Councillor for Goytre Fawr, Jan Butler added:
“Frankly, last week’s reports caused a lot of concern by residents and cost businesses dearly. My mailbox has been pretty full this week with both the Bafflehaus and The Secret Garden reporting some very concerned customers.
“I am very happy to get this confirmation that these works relate only to the Crossing at Penperlleni which is progressing.
“I would also like to reassure residents that they can still catch the bus here and Temporary stops will be signposted.”
