Senior councillor calls on Welsh Government to put brakes on 50mph bypass speed limit plan

Plans to introduce a temporary speed limit on one of the busiest routes in Wrexham has been questioned by a senior councillor.

Last week it was announced that a temporary speed limit of 50mph would be introduced on the J5 Mold Road Interchange to J6 Gresford Interchange (between the B&Q Roundabout and Gresford) to help reduce nitrogen dioxide emissions.

The road is among several in Wrexham which is set to see a temporary speed limit introduced by June.

It comes as part of a package of measures announced last week by Environment Minister Hannah Blythyn, to to reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels on roads where levels are currently above legal limits.

However Cllr David A Bithell, lead member for transport and environment has questioned whether it is the “right time or place” to be introducing such a speed limit.

Under Welsh Government plans there would also be a new £20m fund to reduce emissions and improve the environment in Wales. The Air Quality Fund, which will run until 2021, will support local authorities to comply with nitrogen dioxide limits and improve air quality in their areas.

Commenting on the proposals locally, Cllr Bithell said: “Whilst any effort to reduce emission levels is to be applauded I am not convinced this is the right time or place to be introducing, at such short notice, a 50mph speed restriction in an already congested area.”

The decision will be implemented by the end of June and Wrexham Council will be making representation to the Welsh Government on the decision.