Monmouthshire County Council is to invite residents to join discussions to transform Caldicot’s Newport Road between the town centre and the B4245 into a more pleasant environment. The council is working on plans to enhance the thoroughfare to the west of the town centre and it aims to make it a welcoming place for residents, businesses and visitors with a more green and appealing route for walkers and cyclists.
To test some of the proposals, the council is planning a three-week trial closure of the road to through traffic – and there are plans to use the closed road space for free children’s activities during that time.
With Newport Road’s wide carriageway the current focus is on vehicular traffic – some of which travels relatively quickly – combined with a narrow or non-existent pavement, forcing pedestrians to cross or walk in the road. In addition, Newport Road comprises part of a local and national cycle way but many cyclists believe it is an unattractive and unsafe route.
The council has identified a number of opportunities to improve Newport Road. These include widening the footway on both sides, which provides more space for pedestrians while helping to reduce vehicle speeds and create safer conditions for cyclists. Newport Road also has very little landscaping or trees, and a greener environment would make it more pleasant and attractive, as well as offering environmental benefits like helping to manage rainwater or providing wildlife habitats.
Early work on the proposals suggests that bringing the greatest level of improvement to this part of Newport Road would depend on whether it could be closed to through traffic. To understand the impact of such a closure – on Newport Road itself as well on surrounding streets and nearby businesses – the council is planning a three-week trial closure of the road from Monday 11th October. This will form part of close consultation with Newport Road residents and town centre businesses as well as emergency services and other statutory organisations.
The trial closure point will be near the junction with Jubilee Way, so residents and businesses will still have access from the B4245 – but through traffic will not be permitted. Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained throughout the trial period.
The council is keen to hear from residents and businesses on improvements for the road. It will make its ideas available on its website – www.monmouthshire.gov.uk – and will hold a public display in Caldicot’s town centre in addition to a community drop-in session from 10am to 5pm on 22nd and 23rd October – this will allow Newport Road residents and businesses to meet council officers during the trial, air ideas and provide practical feedback. People can also get in touch by phoning 07890 024489 or emailing: MCCRegeneration@monmouthshire.gov.uk
Councillor Sara Jones, Monmouthshire’s cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration said: “We’re exploring ways to improve Newport Road to create a more pleasant environment and I urge all residents, visitors to Caldicot, the town’s businesses and other organisations to participate in discussions on the area’s future.”
As part of the project, the council has organised a number of community events on Newport Road during the three-week trial closure. From 10am to 12pm on Saturdays 16th, 23rd, and 30th October, as well as on 25th, 27th and 29th October during half term, there will be free play and physical activity opportunities for children aged 2 to 11. And on 30th October from 10am to 12pm, children will be able to bring their bikes and helmets to learn basics about riding safely on the road – and the Caldicot Cycles bicycle shop will offer basic bike repairs and advice.