The long-awaited £56m Newtown bypass will create jobs, but only if it is done right.
A LONG-AWAITIED £56 million bypass is heralding "exciting times" with work set to boost the economy and help revitalise the region.
Welsh Government Assembly Member, Russell George, says construction jobs are set to be created in the area when work starts on the much anticipated Newtown Bypass, which he anticipates will begin next month.
The bypass was given the green light by planners following decades of expectation towards the end of last year. Plans for the 3.4 mile-long bypass were passed in October with the development to run from the Llanidloes side of Glandulas Caravan Park to the existing Pool Road
Mr George says it will usher in the dawn of a new era and expects new and expanding businesses take advantage and help deliver a huge economic boost. Estate agents also believe Newtown's commercial viability is rising in respect of the bypass, which will alleviate the traffic problems faced by frustrated road users.
"These are exciting times, not only for job prospects in the area but to see the bypass come to fruition after such a long wait," Mr George said. "The bypass will transform the Newtown area as well as the mid Wales economy. It will encourage new businesses to move to Newtown and will be a huge relief to people who have suffered congestion in the area for many decades. I am hopeful work will begin in February."
Abergavenny-based Alun Griffiths Contractors are to construct the bypass, which is expected to take two years to deliver, but they are yet to confirm when work will commence. However, Mr George is encouraging workers to take advantage of the construction jobs he says will arise in the locality as a result.
Estate agents in the area have confirmed Newtown's commercial prospects have increased dramatically since news of the new bypass was announced. Recognised brand names including fast food chain Kentucky Fried Chicken and hardware store Screwfix are soon to open their doors on Pool Road. Mid Wales estate agent and property surveyors Morris Marshall and Poole say the current availability of commercial property is an asset to the town. The estate agents have been appointed to promote the large Mochdre Business Park, as well as working on behalf of other commercial landlords and property owners elsewhere in the area.
Kathryn Davies, chartered surveyor at Morris Marshall and Poole said: “Newtown has a great deal going for it in terms of the availability of commercial premises. We’re currently marketing over 20 commercial properties in the town alone ranging from 86sq ft to 13,785sq ft. Newtown has historically been a town thriving on business and manufacturing. Bringing a range of commercial units to the market means there a wide range of choice for those seeking to expand in the town or relocate."
