Early finish for Newtown bypass is welcomed
Indications that Newtown's multi-million bypass could be completed ahead of schedule have been welcomed by politicians.
Earlier this week county councillor Joy Jones revealed that she had been told that the Newtown bypass is due to be finished at the end of 2018, instead of March 2019.
A site visit showed the development that has been made on the bypass, being built to ease traffic congestion that has plagued the A483 through Newtown.
Assembly member Russell George, who has been an integral part of campaigning for the construction of the bypass, said he was pleased with the progress so far.
He said: "It is on time which is brilliant. I know the Welsh Government have always said the end of 2018, but the final date for the last completion of it is 2019, but it is all positive news.
"I am pleased they have stuck to the timetable, I have been in touch with them on a regular basis to hold them to account and make sure things remain on time."
The decision to build the £56 million bypass was made back in 2015.
Following a lengthy public inquiry into what route to take, a decision was made for the bypass to stretch four miles from Llanidloes Road to the west of the town, to Pool Road in the east.
Montgomeryshire MP Glyn Davies has also campaigned for the road for many years and said that people now need to make preparations for when the road is opened.
He said: "I know they were was a little delay to begin with but there has been no hanging around and they have come a long way.
"The Welsh Government made a commitment in 2011 and they have stuck to that which they need to be commended for.
"It was a long battle to get the bypass under way, and it is the next step in the regeneration that took place in Newtown throughout the 80s and the 90s.
"Now is the time for work to begin on putting things in place to take full advantage of the construction, and I have a meeting coming up to discuss things."
Mr George is pushing for a large event to officially open the bypass when it is concluded.
He wants a charity event to benefit local organisations and charities to mark the historic opening of the new roadway.
He added: "I am pushing for a charity event that will raise money for good causes.
"Something like a run along the route to raise money, and it could take place before it is open to traffic."
