A41 safety improvements set to begin next month

The Council has been working closely with a number of companies to develop improvements to the Chetwynd Church Junction, north of Newport.

Work begins on 6 February and is set to last for three works.

The improvements include the use of solar powered cat’s eyes which will remain illuminated during the hours of darkness. These will be supported by the use of electrically powered LEDs and Vehicle Activated Signs (VAS) on the north and southbound approaches.

This programme of works follows on from previous consultation seeking to address concerns over road safety in the area. These improvements are designed to discourage inappropriate speeds through the junction and increase general driver awareness of the junction layout itself, particularly at night.

During the works, a 2km stretch to the north of the junction will also have new warning signs at Lane End Barns, new directional signs, cat’s eye replacement and the installation of double white lines to prevent overtaking.

All new signs will be coated with a water resistant product named ‘tecqua’ which is designed to repel dirt and retain the reflectiveness of the signs without the need for a programme of cleaning in the future.

The signs will also be manufactured from material with a low resale value to discourage theft.

Cllr Shaun Davies, Cabinet Member for Environment, Co-operative Council & Partnerships, said: “These works are an excellent example of the council and residents working together to reach an agreed solution.

“It is also good news that we are able to introduce new technologies such as water resistant signs which will decrease the cost to the council for its ongoing cleaning programme.

The works to Chetwynd Church Junction will begin on Monday 6 February and continue for three weeks. During this time temporary traffic signals will be in place in order to keep the road open, traffic moving and delays to a minimum.