THE prospect of a Llanymynech-Pant bypass is a step closer after a Government commitment in this year's budget.

Montgomeryshire politicians Craig Williams MP and Russell George AM have welcomed a commitment to build the bypass included within the UK Government’s Budget.

The announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak sees the UK Government allocate £10million of funding into consultation for the long-awaited bypass on the A483 between Llanymynech and Pant. The plans also feature extensive improvements to road infrastructure along the A5 into Shropshire and North Wales.

Welcoming the announcement Craig Williams MP said: “This is a fantastic and historic moment for Montgomeryshire. The campaign for a bypass between Llanymynech and Pant has been ongoing for decades with very little progress until recently, and I pay tribute to groups such as the Llanymynech and Pant Bypass Action Group who have tirelessly campaigned for many years.

“I am extremely pleased that the Conservative UK Government is committed to improving infrastructure across Mid Wales, and I am very encouraged to hear the Chancellor talk specifically about improving the A483 – showing that the concerns and issues raised by Montgomeryshire residents are being listened to and tackled by the UK Government.

"Today’s announcement will provide not only a vast economic boost to businesses both sides of the border, but will also greatly improve the safety of road users and significantly reduce journey times, on what is currently a notorious stretch of road."

“It’s brilliant news for the people of Llanymynech, Pant and the surrounding areas, but also for Montgomeryshire as a whole.”

Russell George AM added: "I am delighted that the Chancellor has announced funding for a Pant-Llanymynech bypass.

“The lack of progress on the scheme has for many years created significant concern for residents, prevented tourists from visiting and spending their money in Mid Wales, and has affected local Mid Wales businesses who rely on exporting their goods across the border.

“Many people live, work and access public services on different sides of the Wales-England Border but existing governance arrangements do not incentivise improving those links. This long-term solution which the Chancellor has paved the way for through this announcement will improve transport networks and boost economic growth and cross border cooperation between our communities."

North Shropshire MP, Owen Paterson, added: “Really tremendous to hear the Chancellor of the Exchequer confirm that the A483 Pant/Llanymynech bypass will go ahead.  This is the result of a great team effort in the UK’s longest-running bypass campaign.”