Plaid Cymru has openly admitted that it is considering closing motorway junctions around Newport as a solution to congestion on the M4.

To be clear,  closing junctions would force more traffic onto Newport's local roads, through our neighbourhoods, past our schools and onto the streets that residents and businesses rely on every day.

That is simply unacceptable.

Newport residents should not be used as an easy out for a Plaid government that pledged to find a solution to congestion on the motorway. Shifting traffic off the motorway and onto our already busy streets is not a solution – it is passing the problem on to local communities and to the council's budget. 

It would mean more congestion, more disruption and more pressure on our city. It would affect families, commuters and local businesses, while placing an unnecessary burden on roads that are only now beginning to recover after years of underinvestment by the UK Government.

We are sending a clear message to the Plaid Cymru Government in Cardiff: Newport will not stand by and let this happen. 

The talk of closing junctions must stop. Plaid Cymru should focus on delivering real solutions to congestion on the M4, not making life harder for people in Newport.

Newport Labour has long supported a relief road for the city, and we will continue to fight for the infrastructure Newport needs and deserves. We will make sure Plaid hears your voice loud and clear.

Newport Labour is promoted by Deborah Davies, on behalf of Newport Labour both at Ringland Labour Club, Ringland Circle, Newport, NP19 9PS.