Understand
Newport Council leader vows to fight M4 junction closure plans
Overview
The leader of Newport Council, Dimitri Batrouni, has stated he will fight Welsh government proposals to close specific M4 junctions to ease congestion around the Brynglas Tunnels. The plans include completely closing junction 27 at High Cross and shutting eastbound slip roads at junctions 26 and 25. Batrouni argues that Newport residents should not suffer increased local traffic and disruption as a result.
Key points
- Newport Council leader Dimitri Batrouni has pledged to fight Welsh government proposals to close M4 junctions in the city.
- Proposals include closing junction 27 completely, alongside eastbound slip roads at junctions 26 and 25, to tackle congestion at the Brynglas Tunnels.
- The Welsh government maintains that keeping the status quo on the motorway is not an option and has promised to consult the council.
- Local representatives warn that the closures would negatively impact local neighbourhoods by pushing more traffic onto residential roads.
- An 18-month study will also examine potential roads-based solutions, such as expanding the Brynglas Tunnels or creating a new motorway.