THOSE people who so glibly insist that a by-pass is the only solution to the (much exaggerated) problem of congestion on Hardwick Hill should understand that it is not acceptable to try to solve a perceived problem in one location by moving it elsewhere. The only conceivable route for a by-pass would put a great deal of fast moving, heavy traffic through the middle of the Thornwell estate and create a danger for Thornwell residents, including children who need to cross the existing road to get to school.

I trust no one in authority believes that the particular demographic nature of Thornwell makes this acceptable, because it doesn’t! It is not surprising that individuals will support the spending of public money in ways that suit their own convenience, but the Welsh Government has to take into account the wider public interest.

Money spent on a by-pass is money that will not be available for other purposes which many people might think should have greater priority. This is a particularly important consideration given that services provided by Local Authorities are currently being subjected to savage cuts. We should also bear in mind that the Welsh Government is already committed to borrowing to the maximum amount allowed to finance the proposed M4 by-pass around Newport. So, where is the money to be found for the Chepstow by-pass?

Clive Shakesheff, Lewis Way, Chepstow