A new inquiry will look at the state of roads in Wales and what
is being done to ensure they are fit for the future.
The National Assembly’s Econonmy, Infrastructure and Skills
Committee will look at the current condition of Welsh roads and
whether the funding and maintenance models in place are providing
value for money.
Recent media reports claimed it would take 24 years to clear the
backlog of road repairs across the country.
The Committee will also look at the viability and value for money
of major construction projects like the M4 relief road around
Newport, the A465 dualling programme between Gilwern and
Brynmawr, the Caernarfon to Bontnewydd bypass, and the Newtown
bypass. Costs for the relief road have already risen beyond £1
billion, while a recent Welsh Government announcement revealed
the A465 is also projected to be over budget.
“Potholes and poorly maintained roads are a frustration for all
of us. As well as making your journey uncomfortable they can
seriously damage the Welsh economy and society as a whole,” said
, Chair of the Economy,
Infrastructure and Skills Committee.
“Think of the millions of journeys made every year for business,
for leisure, for health needs, school runs and so on. It is
essential Wales has a well-maintained road network to keep the
country moving.
“We understand that, at a time of budget cuts and financial
pressures, local authorities are having to make tough decisions.
But we intend to examine the current condition of Welsh roads and
what is being done to make the network fit for the future.”
The terms of reference for the inquiry are:
· The current condition of roads in Wales and whether the
approach to funding and delivery of maintenance programmes for
the local road, trunk road and motorway network in Wales is
effective, managed so as to minimise disruption to road users,
and provides value for money;
· Whether major enhancement projects on the local road, trunk
road and motorway network are prioritised, funded, planned and
delivered effectively, and provide value for money. Relevant
issues include the implementation of the Early Contractor
Involvement approach and the opportunities offered by the Welsh
Government’s Mutual Investment Model; and
· Whether Wales is adopting a sustainable approach to the
maintenance and enhancement of its road network in the context of
key legislation such as the Well-being of Future Generations
(Wales) Act 2015 and the Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013.
A public consultation will be open until 27 April 2018. Anyone
wishing to contribute should first view the Committee’s web pages
for more information.
