A CAMPAIGN group has been formed against a proposal for a new tunnel on the M4.

A team of residents and businesses have formed The Campaign Against Additional Tunnel (CAAT) to fight against a proposed extra M4 tunnel at Brynglas.

It is one of four proposals being considered in a consultation on measures to improve congestion, safety and pollution on the M4 between Castleton and Magor.

It is thought that a large number of homes - possibly as many as 150 - would have to be bulldozed for the construction if it went ahead.

The group says the proposal will harm the environment, wildlife, homes and communities and the health of local people.

Jo Sweeney, a local resident from Brynglas, said the group was formed following a public meeting attended by around 140 people at Brynglas House on April 27.

She said the group wanted to raise awareness of the proposal, saying the original consultation was flawed as nobody knew about it.

She said: "We still don't know what houses will be affected. We have been told that we would lose slip roads at junction 25 and 26.

That would impact on the congestion in the local area as well."

Carl Sargeant, transport minister, said: "We are putting to the people of Newport every possible option for tackling congestion but none of these options are being imposed."

The consultation and additional public exhibitions, which were attended by over 800 people, were publicised widely with around 80,000 leaflets being delivered across the Newport area and South Wales in addition to radio advertising and coverage in the local media."

Other options being considered by the consultation ÐÊwhich is running until July 6 - include a new road south of Newport, improvements to roundabouts and signalled controlled junctions on the Southern Distributor Road and junction improvements on the SDR.

CAAT is due to hold a meeting to help residents fill in consultation forms at Christchurch Centre, Old Malpas Road, on June 11 from 6.30pm to 8pm.

For more information visit www.m4cemconsultation.com