AM TO DISCUSS A465 NOISE POLLUTION WITH DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER

DURING a question and answer session this week with the Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones, Monmouth AM Nick Ramsay expressed his concern for residents of Crossroads, Gilwern, since the completion of the A465 dualling scheme.

The road, which now runs from Abergavenny to Gilwern, has resulted in higher levels of noise due to natural traffic growth. Owners of properties, who have not been offered noise insulation under the Noise Insulation Regulations, are at greater risk of tinnitus, hearing loss, sleep disturbances and stress.

The Deputy First Minister has indicated that there are no plans to provide anything more to residents of Gilwern than the current badger fence. Mr Ramsay described the state of affairs as ‘unacceptable' and will be meeting with the Minister to discuss this matter further.

Addressing the Deputy First Minister Nick said: "We all welcome the work that has been done on the A465, particularly in the Abergavenny area.

"However, you will be aware of the concerns of the residents of Crossroads in Gilwern in my constituency whose lives have been made a misery since the completion of the last phase of work due to the noise coming from the newly widened section of the A465.

"I know that you have been in touch with the local councillor representing those residents and that he has received the response that there are no intentions to replace the rather thin wire fence that is in place at present with a more solid fence to limit the noise coming from that road.

"Will you undertake to reconsider this issue? It is causing my constituents serious concern. While they welcome the work that has been done on the road, they do not deserve to have their lives plagued by noise pollution."

To which the Minister responded: "If you feel, Nick, on behalf of your constituents, that you would like me to review that, please make an appointment through my office and I will ensure that I will arrange a meeting with you so that we can discuss the matter."