SF’s Gavin calls for roads’ investment

Sinn Féin Newport representative Gavin Ryan has said that short term solutions just won’t cut it when road safety is an increasing concern.

The local election candidate for Sinn Féin in the Newport LEA was commenting on the frequent reports he is getting about road conditions in Newport town and along the Newport - Rearcross road.

Mr Ryan said: “The focus on road safety is increasing nationally, and the frequency with which poor road conditions locally are being reported to me is growing daily.

“Potholes and uneven surfaces are real issues right now. Motorists travelling the R503 between Newport and Rearcross in particular, are telling me it is becoming more and more common to find themselves swerving to avoid potholes on this stretch of road.

“This is causing a potential danger to themselves, to other motorists and to pedestrians.

“I have reported this to the council on numerous occasions. And while patching has taken place at some of the key areas where the road is deteriorating, the heavy rain we are seeing has already washed much of it away.

“I am aware that Newport is in line for some resurfacing under the roads programme, but we need to see more intensive measures taken to conduct repairs to this stretch of road as well as the roads around Newport town, in a way that lasts.

“Short term solutions cannot replace the need for long term safety. Repeated short term measures will only cost the taxpayer more, when what we need to see is resurfacing where it is needed.

“Motorists, pedestrians, and taxpayers deserve more, and I will continue to represent all road users in seeking to improve road quality and road safety for all.”