No blank cheque for M4 project says Alyn and Deeside Welsh Conservative candidate

Welsh Conservatives are calling on the Welsh Labour Government to establish an upper limit to the M4 relief road project “so that taxpayers can be reassured that any works will achieve value for money.”

Recent reports suggest the projected costs have spiralled on the project to around £1.4 billion.

Alyn and Deeside Welsh Conservative candidate, Sarah Atherton, has also warned that the cost of the project – if allowed to grow – could prevent projects in North Wales from going ahead.

She wants the Alyn and Deeside Labour Party to join her in ruling out giving Carwyn Jones a blank cheque for the South Wales scheme.

During a visit to North Wales on Friday 26^th January, Welsh Conservative leader – Andrew RT Davies – said:

“Despite the First Minister’s promises, the cost of the Black Route has spiralled and we can’t just write a blank cheque for this project.

“Even Labour back-benchers talk of a tipping point and we need reassurance that the Welsh Government has a grip on the finances behind this project.

“Here in North Wales there are a number of vital infrastructure projects which could address the daily gridlock facing motorists, and we need to ensure that taxpayers from all over Wales get value for money.”

Welsh Conservative Candidate – Sarah Atherton – said:

“I have made it clear that I won’t back a blank cheque for the M4 relief road if I’m elected, and I’m calling on other candidates to do the same.

“At times, the Welsh Labour Government can feel like a world away and we need a local champion who will shake up Cardiff Bay, and ensure that North Wales residents get their fair share.

“This is an important project, but we cannot back it at any cost – especially if it undermines progress on upgrades to the A55 and the A494 north eastern gateway.

“The Welsh Labour Government’s new borrowing powers will make ministers more accountable for the money they spend, and better able to support economic growth right across Wales – not just in the South.”