Those of us who use the bridges to the island on a regular basis are more than familiar with the congestion problems. As well as pressing for a third crossing across the Menai, I had also been asking the Transport Minister for a 3 lane peak flow system as a short-term measure. However, last week, she wrote to me to say that it’s not being investigated further because of safety concerns. She did however say that a business case for a third bridge will be sought in order to tackle congestion issues.
Delays in the morning and evening and during other peak times are only a part of the problem. It’s also about resilience and future-proofing. The two lane bridge is prone to closure in high winds and the emergency services in particular are concerned about that. Having Anglesey cut-off would also be economically damaging. Now is the time for action and for a big push for a third crossing.
A number of you got in touch with me during Betsi Cadwaladr’s consultation on maternity services in north Wales, sharing my opposition to any proposal to downgrade service in Ysbyty Gwynedd.
A public meeting is now to be held in Bangor Rugby Club on Thursday (November 12th) to discuss the growing concerns about the loss of consultant-led maternity services at Ysbyty Gwynedd and the spiralling effect that could have on other services at the hospital. Please come along if you’re able. It’s important that the Health Board are made aware of the strength of feeling on this matter and of the many reasons why we need to keep maternity services in Ysbyty Gwynedd to protect mothers and babies.
It has been a pleasure to be able to congratulate young people from Anglesey over the past weeks. The schools’ rendition of Les Miserables, performed in the Wales Millennium Centre, was excellent, and a great experience for those from Anglesey taking part, I’m sure. Gwen Elin from Benllech won the coveted Bryn Terfel Scholarship, and Steffan Lloyd Owen from Pentre Berw won the Kathleen Ferrier Bursary for Young Singers. We certainly do have a wealth of talent on the island.
