Lack of roads investment keeps Wales at a competitive disadvantage, RHA tells Welsh Government

The Road haulage Association (RHA) in the UK has slammed Government Ministers for failing to adequately invest in roads and infrastructure following a Welsh Government review. New transport plans announced last week in the Senedd fail to pledge much-needed improvements to the crumbling Welsh road network including the M4 and A55. Recommendations in the Welsh Government’s Roads Review and National Transport Delivery Plan have missed the chance to reverse decades of under-investment which continue to stymie growth, keeping Wales at a competitive disadvantage with other parts of the UK.

Geraint Davies, RHA Board director, said: “This is a body blow for supply chain businesses who need a modern, functioning road network to keep people and goods moving efficiently.”

Mr. Davies, who is also COO at John Raymond Transport/Nolan Transport GB, added: “Roads are the only option for many businesses and communities in Wales. Bottlenecks on key routes makes transport costlier than it needs to be. Ministers must recognise these realities and commit to road improvements like an M4 Relief Road we desperately need.”

Martin Reid, RHA Policy Director for Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland called on officials to ensure infrastructure projects are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible. He urged the Welsh Government to work with industry on ensuring the needs of transport and logistics businesses are met on future initiatives like the Freight and Logistics Plan. “It’s vital we secure significant roads improvements and plug skills gaps to attract investment and boost the Welsh economy,” he said.