THE FRIENDS of the Earth and the Welsh Wildlife Trusts organisations fall short of the need to take a broad-brush approach to the importance and siting of the new M4 link in Newport. (Argus reports) The choice of the Black route by the Welsh Government would ensure a reduction in the present level of noise and pollution suffered in the built-up areas of the city while the alternative Blue route building on the existing southern distributor road (the SDR) would worsen it.

These objecting parties seem to under-appreciate the importance of our having a successful and prosperous economy in South Wales, something of a powerhouse which will benefit living standards and produce the extra wealth which through taxation can meet the growing needs of government to provide better public services like the NHS, education, etc.

A high quality M4 is badly needed to achieve this and is already 20 years late.

Cyril Highman, Newport