Newport Road Closure Trial Will Not Be Made Permanent

Monmouthshire County Council have confirmed that the road closure trial which took place in October 2021 will not be made permanent, following a review of the data collected.

Back in October 2021, Monmouthshire County Council caused controversy in Caldicot by trialling a new scheme to close part of Newport Road near the Gulf petrol station as part of plans to help connect Caldicot town centre to King George Playing Fields to create a pleasant and inviting place for residents, businesses and visitors.

Following the 3 week trial, Monmouthshire County Council have this week confirmed that the trial will not be made permanent and instead will look at other options as part of active travel plans. The results of the trial have been published which includes a parking survey and traffic survey. 76% of those who commented said that the levels of noise in the road are poor or very poor, with a further 66% describing the pedestrian experience the same.

Monmouthshire County Council has reviewed all the data collected during the 3 week trial period and while they have decided not to go ahead with plans to close the road on a permanent basis, they have stated that they need to listen to the views of those that live on or in the vicinity of Newport Road and will be developing a two-way proposal that still involves opportunities for improved pedestrian pavement and better crossings.