First Minister told Welshpool road closure chaos could have been avoided
Mr George has asked the Welsh Government to tighten guidance on road closures after a series of overlapping works caused disruption for communities in North Powys.
Recent planned works included the complete closure of the A490 between Guilsfield and Welshpool for two months, for Severn Trent Water to carry out maintenance works, ongoing works at Buttington roundabout that led to both the A483 and the A458 roads closing overnight, and the closure of Llandrinio Bridge due to damage.
Raising the issue in the Senedd yesterday, Mr George welcomed the swift cooperation between the Trunk Road Agency, Severn Trent and Powys County Council to reschedule works and keep traffic moving.
He said the episode showed that, with the right approach, it is possible to keep parts of roads open, and avoid complete closures, and for works to be completed at a faster pace.
Mr George asked the First Minister to work with the Transport Secretary and officials to review closure guidance for trunk and smaller roads, with tougher scrutiny of whether full closures are genuinely necessary.
He also asked for greater attention to be given to the length of time it takes to complete works, and questioned what alternatives – such as partial closures, phased works, and tighter cross-agency coordination – can be undertaken to minimise disruption.
Following questioning the First Minister, Mr George MS said: “Residents and businesses can accept essential works, but not avoidable disruption. Recent closures around Welshpool, Guilsfield and Llandrinio showed that when required, roads can be kept open with traffic light controls, rather than complete closures, plus additional resource can be made available when push comes to shove.
“I asked the First Minister to consider tightening guidance so that full closures are the exception, not the default; that the proposed duration of work is challenged; and that agencies coordinate to deliver safe, faster, and less disruptive works.
“Where it’s safe and practical, we should prioritise partial closures, night working, and single, coordinated windows – so people can get to work, school and appointments without unnecessary detours.
“I have also raised with the Council, a proposed road closure in Mochdre, Newtown, where Severn Trent are requesting a complete road closure for several months early next year. Sometimes it just seems far too easy to close a road, causing disruption for local people, without fully exploring all options.”
Responding to the question, the First Minister, Eluned Morgan acknowledged that Mr George’s intervention had led to an improved outcome for works in north Powys.
“We understand how frustrating it must be for drivers when roads are closed, but sometimes they are essential to make sure that we keep people safe,” she said.
“Authorities plan major works months in advance. They consult councils and communities. They avoid holiday peaks. They avoid big events and use night-time working where it’s safe and practical.”
Mr George has invited Ministers to consider reviewing road closure guidance.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|