COP26: Newgale road could be destroyed in 15 years

Ten people were rescued when waves swept a bus off the road at Newgale in 2014

Erosion could destroy parts of an important coastal road by 2036 with no guarantee a replacement will be built.

The A487, which runs along Wales' west coast, is a vital link road for people travelling between Haverfordwest and the St Davids peninsula.

In 2014 experts said the shingle bank at Newgale was unstable, and would lead to the destruction of the road.

Plans were drawn up for a replacement, but a freeze on new road projects in Wales has put that in doubt.

Pembrokeshire council's cabinet member for environment Cris Tomos called for swift action and said it was vital the Welsh government committed to the scheme.

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"From our calculations, this shingle bank has around 15 years left. It is imperative that we work quickly to move along with this plan," he said.

"This link is crucial as an economic highway to bring visitors and goods to the area."

Councillor Cris Tomos says funding needs to be found as there's a risk climate change will happen at a quicker pace

He believes if climate change takes a quicker pace than anticipated it could be "the first road" to be affected.

Plans have been drawn up to build a new road link, and a preferred route was chosen in 2018.

The shingle bank that protects Newgale, and the A487, is becoming unstable

It would stretch from the existing road at Penycwm, across the valley to a new roundabout near Roch, some distance from the coast.

Pembrokeshire council hoped it would be completed by 2025.

The local authority estimates it would cost £19m and it needs finance from the Welsh government.

However, in June, deputy climate change minister Lee Waters announced a freeze on all new road projects, pending a review which is not due to be completed until summer 2022.

The Welsh government has provided more than £400,000 for the scheme to date, but is yet to commit to building a new route.

The area inland of Newgale Beach is susceptible to flooding

Josh Phillips, chair of Solva community council, said the plans had been earmarked for five years without any tangible work taking place.

"It's vital for public services such as ambulances and the fire services, and providing access to tourism. It's vital. We need action sooner rather than later," he said.

"This is Wales-wide and we need to start looking for the solutions for all our towns and communities along the Welsh coast that will be affected by climate change."

The Welsh government said: "We have provided funding for the Newgale coastal adaptation plan and A487 route diversion over the last few years.

"A roads review panel has been set up to look at whether new roads are the right solutions for transport problems, in line with Llwybr Newydd, the Wales Transport Strategy.

"The panel is expected to produce a full report on current and planned road schemes next summer."

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