Residents in Bridgend County Borough are being reminded that there is still time to have a say on plans that could transform the centre of Pencoed.
Launched on 8 November 2021, the consultation asks people for their views on ambitious plans to address long-standing traffic congestion issues in Pencoed which have prevented new development and economic investment from taking place.
If approved, the £17m plans will enable the eventual closure of Pencoed’s level railway crossing by rebuilding the Penprysg road bridge so that it can accommodate two-way traffic, and creating a safe, all-new active travel bridge over the line for pedestrians and cyclists.
The plans will also potentially unlock development land located to the west of the current level crossing and enable fresh investment and facilities to be introduced.
Cllr Stuart Baldwin, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has engaged with the consultation process so far.
“These proposals aim to ease the town’s congestion problems, increase safety and deliver new improvements for residents and businesses alike by separating the road from the railway line.
“They have been carefully developed in partnership through a steering group featuring representatives from Bridgend County Borough Council, the local community, Chris Elmore MP, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Welsh Government, Network Rail, Transport for Wales and Pencoed Town Council.
“While the plans represent one of the largest investments into local transport infrastructure that Bridgend County Borough has ever seen, any work would be carefully organised in order to keep temporary disruption at an absolute minimum. If approved, this could be an absolute game-changer for Pencoed.”
Bill Kelly, Route Director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, added: “We have been working very closely with local elected representatives and Bridgend County Borough Council on the future of Pencoed Level Crossing, and are looking forward to hearing the feedback from the public consultation.”
The public consultation period is due to close on 31 January 2022 and you can find out more, view answers to frequently asked questions and complete the consultation survey online at the council website.
You can also request an alternative format by emailing [email protected], calling 01656 643664 or writing to Communications, Marketing and Engagement, Bridgend County Borough Council, Civic Offices, Angel Street, Bridgend CF31 4WB.
Image credit: John Grayson, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons