Wrexham launches a consultation for its Western Gateway project, focusing on transport and development.
The project involves several groups, with Wrexham Council leading it. Transport for Wales, the Welsh Government, and Wrexham University are also involved. Their goal is to improve the city’s west entrance.
Wrexham.com asked the council for consultation details, inquiring about who was in charge if not the council. They noted that the Western Gateway site might become offices, and that the site is near a planned new school. Wrexham.com asked if the office area includes the school site and, if so, why the consultation lacked school details. The council did not respond to these questions.
The consulted site sits between Moneypenny and the A483. Wrexham Council owns it and wants high-quality employment there. The North Wales Growth Deal funds the project, which aims to invest over £1 billion by 2036. The Western Gateway project received £9 million.
The project should add £120 million to the economy. They want to develop 8,000 square meters for businesses, which will support the creation of new jobs. A public consultation began, outlining transport and road improvements.
Residents know about traffic congestion, which is bad near Wrexham Maelor Hospital and also affects Ruthin Road. A new link road is planned, running through the site and connecting Ruthin Road to Moneypenny Roundabout.
The road offers primary access to Wrexham Maelor Hospital from A483 Junction 4. This should reduce hospital traffic on Croesnewydd Road. Part of Croesnewydd Road might become pedestrian only, specifically the area between Western Gateway Signals and housing; however, emergency vehicles and buses could still access it.
The proposals aim to solve existing issues, including traffic congestion at peak times near Wrexham Maelor Hospital. Congestion also impacts access to the A483, causing safety concerns at A483 Junction 4. Pedestrians and cyclists face issues, and the A483 and local developments cause division. Parking is limited at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, and buses are often late because of traffic. Direct bus routes serve few places.
The site is part of the North Wales Growth Deal, which includes £9 million for the Western Gateway site. This investment aims to develop the site, requiring transport improvements for access.
WSP conducts a study for Wrexham Council, supporting the development of the Western Gateway. It focuses on improving local connectivity. They want to understand local transport problems and are also interested in transport improvement priorities. Public views on the Western Gateway proposals matter.