A PUBLIC meeting next week will air the problem of air pollution caused by traffic congestion in and around Chepstow.

Transition Chepstow has re-arranged the event from November, when election purdah rules saw it postponed, to Thursday, January 16, at Chepstow School arts hall at 7.30pm.

The Traffic Forum Planning Group, formed of the Transition Chepstow – Transport, Energy and Health and Consciousness Groups, is dedicated to the alleviation of the worsening traffic congestion problems for road users and pedestrians, alongside the air pollution hazard to health. 

Tim Melville, Transition Chepstow co-ordinator, said: “This traffic issue has gone on for far too long and we need to do something about it swiftly. That is why we are committing to getting this done within 12 to 18 months and making a genuine difference for people in Chepstow.

“Infrastructure hasn’t changed in Chepstow since the 1980s. We are sick and tired of politicians putting this issue off. Since the bridge tolls came down and the traffic increased, the town has realised it is unable to cope with the level of vehicles coming in and out.”

Transition Chepstow fears the failure to build a much mooted bypass could mean grid-lock throughout the town.

“This has garnered massive interest in the area and further afield, which shows how much it means to people,” added Mr Melville. “I’d just like to see as many people at the meeting as possible to show politicians we are ready to hold them to account.” 

“Improvement to the road infrastructure – especially High Beech roundabout and Tesco junction bottle-neck access, and likewise – mindful of the Climate Emergency Declaration to decrease CO2 and global warming – the major overhaul of public transport bus and rail service facilities, is crucial.”