KEN Skates AM has resisted calls to visit the Mabey Bridge development site until the planning process is complete.

Mr Skates, who is Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, was invited to Chepstow by Monmouth AM Nick Ramsay to alleviate serious concerns about the town’s infrastructure.

Mr Ramsay had been made away of these issues at a public meeting last month (10th February) at Chepstow Gatehouse led by Chepstow Councillor Deputy Town Mayor Marc Le Peltier.

He heard a “snapshot of opinion” from residents about the proposed Mabey Bridge development site and how other new housing developments would put strain on the town’s infrastructure, especially congestion on the A48.

Following the meeting Mr Ramsay had written to Ken Skates AM, but the minister replied that he would wait until the Mabey Bridge development planning process was complete before committing to a site visit.

Replying to the letter, Mr Skates explained: “until the outcome of the planning process is known, we are not in a position to commit to any plans or works at this time.”

Mr Ramsay is now hoping he can persuade the minister to bring the meeting forward. Mr Ramsay said: “Chepstow is likely to be the subject of significant development over the next decade so it is vital that we have a comprehensive plan for the town’s infrastructure.

“I have asked the Minister if the Welsh Government has considered developing a mid to long term plan for the infrastructure of the town and surrounding area.

“Rather than wait for the outcome of the planning process, I’m urging the minister to meet on site so that he can meet local residents and listen to their concerns.”

Meanwhile, two petitions for an A48 Chepstow bypass have been created, addressed to both the UK and Welsh Governments. Created by the Chepstow Bypass Action Group, the petitions explain that new housing estates in both Monmouthshire and the Forest of Dean and lowering of the bridge tolls will increase traffic on an already congested A48.

It described the issue as “neglected by all branches of government”, and hopes that the “vital transport route would not fall prey to cross border buck passing.”

For more information visit the Chepstow Bypass Action Group on Facebook.