Llanymynech Bypass freeze is “nonsense logic”

The Secretary of State for Wales has accused the Welsh Government of using “nonsense logic” on putting a blanket freeze on major road projects, including the long-awaited Llanymynech-Pant Bypass.

Simon Hart MP was visiting the Welshpool area yesterday as a guest of Montgomeryshire MP, Craig Williams, who used the bypass delivery as a key election promise when he swept to victory in 2019. Owen Paterson MP, who represents Pant as North Shropshire MP, was also present. 

But just a fortnight ago, the Welsh Government said that all new major road schemes would be put on hold while it conducts a climate change review based on controlling emissions.

Ministers want to shift money from new roads to maintaining existing routes and investing in public transport, and it is unclear how this may impact the proposed bypass which crosses the English border and would rely on funds from both Governments.

“I remember it being a problem when I lived in the area 25 years ago, so this (the bypass) has been a long time coming,” Mr Hart told MyWelshpool.

“I think what is really confusing, and quite frustrating, is the fact that we are not going to solve the climate change problem just by making our roads worse. That’s a nonsense logic.

“Of course our economy depends on good roads, good connectivity, particularly cross-border.

“This, to me, seems like a crazy project to bin at this stage because this is an English/Welsh project that joins the two economies together in a really positive way.

“There is no obvious reason why this should be paused. And the idea that somehow there might be some sort of climate change advantage from doing that, I’m afraid, is not being met by anyone from the local community or businesses that depend on this road.”

PICTURE TOP: Secretary of State for Wales, Simon Hart MP (right), pictured in Welshpool with Montgomeryshire MP, Craig Williams (centre), and Owen Paterson, MP for North Shropshire.

PICTURE BOTTOM: Mr Hart MP (from , and Mr Williams MP, enjoy a swift one at Monty's Brewery during their visit to the area on Monday. 

PICTURES by Phil Blagg Photography.