A PUBLIC inquiry into controversial plans to build an M4 relief road around Newport is expected to be delayed once again, as discussions to reach an agreement with objectors failed.

The inquiry, which was expected to end in July, resumed after a summer adjournment today to hear from objectors Roadchef and Associated British Ports (ABP), which runs Newport docks.

But barrister Andrew Tait QC, representing ABP, said that despite ongoing discussions with the Welsh Government, a solution has yet to be found.

“ABP is continuing to discuss ways of resolving these problems but at present the objection remains,” Mr Tait told the inquiry yesterday.

Representatives for the Welsh Government said discussions are ongoing, but it is not yet clear whether the result will be that ABP withdraws its objection, as the Welsh Government hopes.

The inquiry is expected to be adjourned next week until December 5, with the aim of it concluding by Christmas.

A statement issued by Mathew Jones, project engineer for the Welsh Government, said: “There are ongoing discussions with ABP with a view to them withdrawing their objections.

“The new Welsh Government evidence anticipated to be issued in late October, 2017, will set out the offer being made to ABP in respect of the proposed works to Newport Docks.”

The director of ABP, Matthew Kennerley, previously said the proposed black route would “cause serious detriment” to the port.

And speaking after the inquiry today, he said: “ABP was approached by Welsh Government officials to hold discussions, on a without prejudice basis, that seek to address both the serious detriment to the Port of Newport and ABP’s safety concerns in relation to the proposed bridge crossing over the port, that would arise should the proposed black route for the M4 relief road go ahead.

“While ABP is approaching these discussions positively and constructively an agreement to safeguard the future of the port is still to be reached.

“Any agreement must protect the sustainable future of the Port of Newport, which is recognised as a major international deep-sea port, supporting more than 2,500 jobs and contributing £173 million annually to the Welsh economy.”

The inquiry also heard from Roadchef chief executive Simon Turl today, who said the relief road will “significantly” increase the risk of major accidents due to driver fatigue.

The Welsh Government has disputed the claim.

The inquiry is due to hear written objections tomorrow, and Thursday.