I raised the lack of any plans for a third Menai crossing in Prime Minister’s Questions this week as the ban on new road building by the Welsh Labour government continues.
I – alongside many local people - wants to see action on a third crossing now major investment is coming to the island in the shape of a freeport and green energy projects.
Speaking in the House of Commons on Wednesday, I said: “My island constituency of Ynys Môn is accessed via two bridges: the Menai suspension bridge and the Britannia bridge. Holyhead is the second busiest port in the UK, but bridge repairs and the weather can result in long traffic queues.
“To make the most of our Anglesey freeport and new nuclear at Wylfa, a third crossing is vital. Last year, the Welsh Labour Government scrapped plans for all new road projects, including our third bridge.
“Will the Deputy Prime Minister use his influence to ensure that north Wales is not ignored by Cardiff, and that we get that third bridge?”
In reply the Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said: “I know and understand the frustration across Wales, particularly in my honourable friend’s constituency, about this state of affairs.
“The Welsh Government has not prioritised building new roads. They are damaging growth potential in places such as Anglesey, and are spending £100 million on new politicians. We will work with her to ensure that we resolve the matter.”
Speaking afterwards I said: “We need to keep the pressure on the government in Cardiff about how Ynys Môn is being shortchanged by this shortsighted policy. A third crossing is vital to the economic prospects of the island and it needs to be back on the agenda.”
