Urgent talks with National Highways

Today, I visited the M48 Severn Bridge to hold urgent talks with National Highways, following this week’s public meeting on roads and transport across the Forest of Dean.

The immediate closure of the Prince of Wales Bridge on 9th December highlighted the issues I heard at the public meeting, reinforcing the need for further infrastructure such as a third crossing.

On Monday, I heard first-hand how congestion, weight limits, the removal of the bridge toll, and closures are affecting local lives. We are all frustrated, and I am determined to take action.

Securing this urgent meeting was crucial to ensure your concerns were heard by National Highways.

During our talks, they explained the safety issue that forced the closure and the overnight work to remove the faulty lamp columns. I welcomed their immediate action taken to address the problem and was impressed by their dedication to reopening the bridge to the public while ensuring safety.

Assurance was provided that there is no current risk of a bridge collapse under current conditions, and the issue is contained to surface corrosion on specific columns of which have now been removed.

But this meeting wasn’t just about one incident. It was about making sure the concerns residents raised at my public meeting were heard loud and clear and about ensuring that broader issues and future plans are properly prioritised going forward.

I am now initiating discussions with the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, to escalate these concerns and push for the infrastructure our area desperately needs.

I’m taking your concerns straight to the top, pushing to ensure the voice of the Forest is heard, and working to deliver the solutions we’ve been waiting far too long for.

I will continue to update you on progress as I work with strategic partners to seek the infrastructure and forward planning our area desperately needs.