Bridge warning over Mid Wales windfarm convoys

While daily convoys are already moving through the region as part of a summer programme, this latest lorry was the precursor to a fresh set of movements starting on September 12.

Russell George, AM for Montgomeryshire, has already warned the Welsh Government about the potential problems with the proposed route.

The trial yesterday was carried out between Liverpool and through Montgomeryshire to the Garreg Lwyd site on the Radnorshire/Montgomeryshire border to assess whether the numerous abnormal and heavy goods vehicles can manage the route. These abnormal loads will travel along the A483, and travel along Pool road, over the Kerry road roundabout, and up Llanidloes road. The lorries will then travel under Nantoer bridge on the A489, which is well known for large vehicles having difficulty passing under it and blocking the main trunk road.

Mr George said: "I've had long held reservations about this development due to the transport implications for Newtown. Indeed, on transportation issues alone, the application for the windfarm should have been rejected.

"I have also repeatedly raised concerns about the consequences of the proposed route for these abnormal vehicles with the First Minister. Despite the assurances provided to me, I simply don't believe that the Welsh Government has taken the concerns I have raised seriously.

"The movement of these vehicles will not only cause huge disruption in Newtown but also the wider Mid Wales area. In particular, I have concerns that the route will be navigating under the Nantoer bridge, a bridge under which numerous HGV and large vehicles have got lodged previously.

"The developers and Welsh Government Ministers should not only be concerned about the wind turbine components getting to their destination, but should also be aware of the significant congestion that will be caused behind the delivery vehicles and the wider effects which this will have on the Mid Wales economy."