Much of what my fellow councillors and I handle takes place away from public view. While we maintain thoroughly democratic procedures, not all discussions occur in visible committee or council sessions.
One of the major initiatives my team has prioritised involves the county’s transport network. This encompasses not merely highways, though substantial investment is earmarked for road improvements in the upcoming budget, but also public transport connections that would alleviate strain on the heavily used road system.
Given Monmouthshire’s rural nature, multiple approaches are essential, and this has been our focus.
Consequently, over recent years we have maintained ongoing discussions with Ken Skates, the Welsh Government’s Transport Secretary.
We have made persistent representations for a fresh M48 interchange at Rogiet. This would establish a direct connection between the M48 motorway and Severn Tunnel Junction railway station while offering Caldicot a straightforward new route to the motorway network. Local people could reach the M48 without becoming embroiled in, or worsening, the congestion at High Beech roundabout on Chepstow’s outskirts, which has become a problematic pinch point. Furthermore, all users could access the rail services at Severn Tunnel Junction without troubling Rogiet’s residents.
The positive development came last week with the breakthrough Monmouthshire desperately requires. The Welsh Government has given its backing to this interchange and will fund the design phase.
Our ambition involves a ‘Metro’ rail network connecting Lydney, Chepstow, Caldicot, Rogiet and Magor with Newport, Cardiff, Bristol, Gloucester and the broader rail system. This Metro would include new stations, among them Magor. We anticipate fast services running every quarter-hour, positioning the train as a genuine substitute for car travel across the region.
Progress is already underway, with enhanced train frequencies and single fares set at just £3.60. Further improvements are now achievable through quality public transport investment.
The proposed M48 interchange would connect with a new car park at Severn Tunnel Junction, establishing what we term ‘Severnside Parkway’. This facility would enable residents across the county and surrounding areas to drive and park before accessing our upgraded, publicly owned Welsh rail network. I anticipate using Severnside Parkway to board trains towards Cardiff, Bristol, London or Birmingham.
This demonstrates what a Labour-led County Council can deliver through integrated strategic planning in collaboration with Labour administrations in both Wales and Westminster. It reflects genuine partnership working.