I AM afraid that Nick Clegg has been misled into thinking that the M4 route chosen by the Welsh Government will be more environmentally damaging than the alternatives. The very contrary will apply.

While admitting there will be some damage to the Gwent Levels, the Black route will divert away much of the increased traffic pollution and noise which will otherwise be inflicted on the population in the built-up areas of the city.

Traffic fumes have now been identified as coming close to smoking as a major cause of lung cancer.

A cheaper M4 relief road would, I am afraid, come at a cost in terms of efficiency and good health which we will have to pay for for many years to come.

Cyril Highman, Newport