Locals express anger over the slow implementation of safety measures at A40 Raglan junctions, despite identified ‘quick wins’.
Nick Ramsay led the meeting as chair of Raglan Community Council. They want “quick wins” implemented fast. The report, released in June 2024, showed three quick changes doable within a year.
Right-hand turns remain a problem. These turns are from Monmouth Road onto the A40 eastbound. Also, turns from A40 westbound leading to Groesonen Road towards Dingestow are risky.
Richard John and Jayne McKenna, county councillors representing Mitchel Troy and Trellech, spoke up. They’re worried about the slow progress.
Richard John called the meeting useful, noting that key decision makers gathered there. They discussed accident data timeliness from police. He also noted adherence to the 50mph limit between Raglan roundabout and A40/A449.
He mentioned many accidents over time. Residents fear more without action. Longer-term options take years to complete, so they push for quick changes now.
Jayne McKenna said the report came out eight months ago. Quick wins aren’t happening yet, and she wants action before another crash. Council and government must work together to remove two right-hand turns.
The government must assess junction remodel options. Six long-term options exist, including lights and roundabouts, and dual carriageway conversion is also possible.
McKenna finds some options “controversial”. The study used road review data, not safety data, and the accident data it used seemed “out of date”. She believes the public needs a voice soon.
Ken Skates, the Transport Cabinet Secretary, said they lowered the speed limit to 50mph to help with current problems on the A40. They will keep working with the council, check the junctions closely, and review any more options.