No date to finish Newtown Road canal job

Motorists using the busy road to Newtown won’t be pleased to know that there is no final date as to when the temporary traffic lights will be taken down.

Following last month’s accident when a lorry went through the crash barrier and finished in the canal, the temporary lights have been helping to manage traffic.

But it has resulted in delays and following a question posed by Assembly Member Russell George, Minister Edwina Hart delivered the bad news.

She said: “The contractor undertaking works to deal with the contaminated soil and pollution in the canal, on behalf of the insurer, as been waiting for approval from the Canal and Rover Trust to enter the river. The Trust had previously raised concerns but these have been dealt with.

“There are several factors that are also impacting on the repair. These include structural restoration of the verge, provision of a compliant vehicle restraint system and proximity of the canal. The site is also within a Site of Special Scientific Interest and contains a European Protected Species.

“I am unable to give an exact date for completion, however, my officials along with the key stakeholders will endeavour to complete the work as quickly as possible.”

PICTURE (Owain Betts): The scene of the accident still causing headaches for motorists.