Calls to cut traffic gridlock on route to seaside
GRIDLOCK caused by summer traffic as people head to a seaside hotspot calls for “outside the box thinking” to solve the problem, say councillors.
Ynys Llanddwyn, in Anglesey, is known for its lighthouse, pilots’ cottages and church ruins, and attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year.
But getting to and from the island has long been an issue, with the only public vehicle access to the car park which serves the island being the narrow road leading from Newborough along Church Street.
According to local traders, delays of up to 30 minutes have been reported during the height of summer in Newborough as motorists try to manoeuvre from one end of the village to the other.
As a result, calls are now being made for action to tackle the issue, including looking at reopening former roads and operating a one-way system.
Gridlock has been known to be an even bigger problem when a large congregation convenes at St Peter’s Church, which lies near the ancient Llys Rhosyr royal court.
Cllr Bryan Owen, who represents Bro Aberffraw on Anglesey Council, said: “We want to alleviate the pressure on the village. There are times when it’s bumper to bumper in Newborough itself. This has an effect on locals and businesses, with people struggling to reach the church.”
Fellow Bro Aberffraw councillor Peter Rogers added: “It’s absolutely chock-a-block now, which is down to the extra footfall as a result of the popularity of Ynys Llanddwyn.
“It’s a wonderful area, but we just can’t manage the traffic going through, and it’s impacting nowhere more than the local church.”
A spokesperson for Anglesey council said: “We are aware of the high concentration of traffic through Newborough, especially during peak season, which is partly due to the popularity of Ynys Llanddwyn and Newborough Forest.
“We have met with the local councillors and community council and are currently working together with Natural Resources Wales to find a resolution that will help ease the congestion.”