Welsh Conservatives have accused Labour’s policy on road investment of being inconsistent and political cherry picking as the £1.4 billon dualling of the A465 between Dowlais and Hirwaun will continue despite two smaller schemes being rejected.
The Road Review Panel’s report concluded that, under the low traffic growth estimates, the A55 junction 14 and 15 improvements and the junction 16 and 16a improvements would not assist the Welsh Government carbon reduction targets and would cost more than the estimated value of the benefits. These schemes were subsequently cancelled by the Labour Government.
Yet despite this rational, the dualling of the A465 is set to continue despite having a greater environmental impact than the two schemes cancelled thus far.
Commenting, Welsh Conservative and Shadow Minister for Transport, Natasha Asghar MS said, “It is deeply concerning that Labour seem to have no clear and coherent plan to address congestion and climate change in Wales. Rather than forward thinking and using strategic rationale, this Labour Government continues to use arbitrary decision making with no thought for the future.
“Labour Ministers need to abandon this economically irresponsible road freeze and invest in Wales’ infrastructure, ensuring businesses across Wales have the connectivity to grow and expand their reach.”
The Shadow Minister added, “But we also need roads fit for the future. The growth of electric cars will not bring an end to congestion in Wales but can make it worse. The Labour Government need to shift their mindset to future proofing our nation’s economy.
“This virtue signalling from Labour Ministers needs to end. Wales needs a government willing to invest effectively and help businesses and workers to achieve their full potential.”
© Image Sabre-roads.org.uk
