Torfaen Borough Council has approved a £250,000 scheme to install bus priority traffic lights on the A4043 between Pontypool and Blaenavon, aiming to reduce the six-mile journey that can take up to an hour during peak periods.
Bus priority scheme approved
The council will use part of its £6.5 million funding from the UK Government to boost the local economy on the scheme. Simon Hall, the council's interim head of economy, told the council's Labour cabinet: "The project accelerates bus travel through the town and through the region using technology which turns the lights green when buses approach the actual traffic light."
Driver frustration concerns raised
The plan was welcomed by Councillor Sue Morgan, who also asked if the system could be extended further south in future. She said: "I think it's fabulous I love we've got the ability to prioritise buses. Is it likely to cause driver frustration and how do we pre-empt that when drivers perceive traffic lights changing in a way they're not accustomed to? That can cause a bit of kickback."
Mr Hall said he thought there is "always driver frustration" where there are traffic lights but it isn't intended other drivers would notice the priority. He said expanding the use of the priority signals could be considered in the next part of funding under the local growth fund.
Other projects include tunnel restoration and cycling trails
The project is one of 10 agreed by the cabinet totalling £3.5 million. Other projects include £50,000 for initial works to prepare for the restoration of the 211-year-old Pwll Du tunnel, described as "the longest horse powered tramway in the UK", and £145,000 to develop cycling trails at Tirpentwys, Pontypool, with a planned visitor centre with toilets and showers.
Council leader Anthony Hunt said it was a "great example" of the council's Deal project that aims to support community led initiatives. "Wheel sports can help our visitor economy and provide positive outdoor provision for local young people and the not so young. For me it's a great example of The Deal in action as it's not provision we would look to make ourselves," said Cllr Hunt.
Funding and future plans
Further schemes are being developed for a second funding tranche of £3 million to be agreed later this year. Cllr Jo Gauden said a Blaenavon Engineering Hub, discussed in February, is still planned but will not be included in the first round. She said: "While the project is absolutely still progressing to meet a local skills gap, and inspire local future engineers, we will not be able to deliver against the funding deadline this year."
The cabinet approved funding subject to the council signing an agreement with Rhondda Cynon Taf council that oversees the local growth fund in Wales. Mr Hall said the delay is a "risk" to the project but talks are ongoing between the two councils and the Welsh Government.
