Lorry crash near Welshpool leads to call for action on road

On February 28, a busy road between Welshpool and Middletown was closed while a lorry was cleared from a field by Powys Council’s Highways Department following a collision.

The A458 in Trewern near Maes Fron Hall was shut to traffic in both directions after the lorry crashed through a fence, into a field and partially blocking the road alongside it.

Emergency services on the scene

Traffic lights were installed in the aftermath of the crash, with traffic passing the scene in a single file.

Derek Owen, who lives at nearby Maes Fron Hall, said: “This stretch of road presents a danger to motorists and residents, and we need those dangerous conditions to be properly addressed.

“This road has seen three serious accidents in as many months, but nothing has been done.”

Mr Owen and his wife have lobbied the council to make them aware of the danger of this stretch of road, including meeting Montgomeryshire MP Craig Williams and Trewern councillor Amanda Jenner.

Emergency services on the scene

After they said they would not allow vehicles onto their land to recover the vehicle, they now say they have also been told that remedial work will take place to allow the recovery and to maintain the site.

This could include installation of a metal barrier along the roadside, and in the short term will see the fence reinstated. 

Derek added: "I am 82 and at my time of life really want to have a quiet life without having to clear up other peoples negligence.

“I hope now the council will at last do something to address my continual complaints and I welcome all the publicity this may bring."

A Welsh Government spokesman said: “We do not have any plans for interventions on this stretch of road at present but will continue to routinely monitor police official records of collisions and implement additional measures where necessary.”