Many of us have experienced being caught in the traffic jams that can build up on the M4 around Newport at peak times.

This is a problem area that needs to be solved because traffic jams cause delays for road users and have a negative impact on the economy

.We need an answer quickly. We also need to ensure that we opt for a solution that is sustainable, can be completed relatively quickly, and represents value for money.

The Welsh and UK Government’s preferred option – to build a new 14km stretch of the M4 across the Gwent Levels to the south of Newport – will cost in excess of £1 billion and is not estimated to be ready before 2031. We cannot afford that delay.

Plaid Cymru’s favoured option, supported by the Federation of Small Businesses and Institute of Directors, solves the problem by upgrading the current road network to the south of Newport. It will cost £380 million and is estimated to be ready by 2020.

Choosing this option would also have the added benefit of freeing up funds to invest in the wider transport infrastructure in all parts of Wales.

This is the best option for Wales, for road users and for Welsh business, and it is the option that the Welsh Government should pursue.

Rhun ap Iorwerth

Plaid Cymru

Party of Wales

Shadow Minister for Economy and Enterprise