Calls for action to tackle accident blackspots after lorry crash at Powys bridge

Last month the A470 was closed for several hours at Pontdolgoch after a lorry tipped under the railway bridge. As the crash happened under a railway bridge[1], it also resulted in cancellations on the main Cambrian Railway Line through northern Powys. Now councillors are to be called upon to write to the Welsh Government seeking action to address the problems, in collaboration with Network Rail and Powys County Council.

A motion that will be presented to a meeting of the full council on Thursday (October 9) reads: "The A470[2] is a key road tying Wales together. It is a essential link for our economic prosperity. "We have seen investment and upgrades on sections of the road over the years yet there are certain parts in Powys that continue to cause problems.

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"This is highlighted when we have accidents or road blockages creating huge diversions and problems for locals and visitors alike. 

"One such accident hotspot is at Pontdolgoch[3] with vehicles regularly hitting or being unable to pass the Cambrian Line railway bridge resulting in not only the A470 being closed but also the main railway line that links Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth.

"In view of the need for a modern efficient integrated transport system in Wales Council calls on Welsh Government to work with Network Rail and Powys Council to identify and undertake measures to alleviate the situation and to prioritise action on the A470."

 The motion has been proposed by Plaid Cymru leader Elwyn Vaughan, who represents the Glantwymyn ward, further along the A470 at its junction with the A489, and Machynlleth's Plaid councillor Alwyn Evans.

References

1. ^ crash happened under a railway bridge (www.countytimes.co.uk)
2. ^ A470 (www.countytimes.co.uk)
3. ^ Pontdolgoch (www.countytimes.co.uk)