IT HAS been a turbulent few weeks in the Assembly, dominated by the stepping down of Carwyn Jones as first minister.

Whilst I certainly disagree with many of his political views, and policies initiated under his leadership, I feel that personally, he has been an excellent ambassador for Wales, his dedication to the role and his duties as a public servant cannot be called into question.

The Carl Sargent affair has obviously been a great strain on both him, and his family, so one can sympathise with his desire to seek a quieter role in Welsh politics.

Turning now to the issue which has been dominating people’s thoughts in South Wales East and the Assembly itself for a very long time, the M4 relief road.

It looks increasingly likely that the black route is to be the preferred option.

There will be a great deal of disruption over the five year plus it will take to build the infrastructure, so I wish those most closely impacted by the development the very best over the period.

With relation to traffic congestion in general I have noted, as a frequent user of the M4 approach to the Brynglas tunnels eastbound, that much of the congestion is being caused by the speed restrictions, often 30-40 mph, put in place at peak times.

Whilst I realise these are designed to alleviate accidents caused by sudden lane changes, from Malpas filter lane back to the M4, would this not be better served by a large back-lit gantry sign indicating correct lane procedure just prior to the High Cross filter road?

Having travelled this road many times with no speed restrictions in place but with high volumes of traffic, traffic seems to flow freely.

Perhaps those who make these decisions could look at such alternatives.

Whilst we are on the subject of traffic buildup I have been contacted by many constituents using the Rechem roundabout in Pontypool since they put in place new lane signage.

Everyone believes the new lane designation is ludicrous, and almost certain to cause accidents.

The heaviest traffic flows are forced into one lane whilst there is a designated single lane for very light traffic flows, in this case to Cwmbran from the south and New Inn from the north.

Ensuing tailbacks, and late lane changes are inevitable, and are already occurring.

Someone please change – urgently.