Will find solution to M4 congestion, first minister says

First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has pledged to tackle M4 congestion with a roads-based solution, framing the issue as an economic test for Wales. He cited the Brynglas Tunnels in Newport as a bottleneck and signaled options such as upgrading the old A40 and a blue route to relieve traffic, alongside new railway stations between Cardiff and the Severn Tunnel. He did not commit to a specific scheme in an interview with BBC Walescast and repeated opposition to the previously proposed M4 relief road, the black route.

Speaking at Anglesey’s Urdd Eisteddfod, ap Iorwerth said Plaid Cymru would pursue the best available road-based options rather than revive the black route, while acknowledging environmental and cost concerns that helped ditch the £1.6 billion project. He did not rule out a fresh crossing near the Menai Strait, pointing to the three recent closures of the Menai Suspension Bridge and suggesting a parallel three-lane structure as one possibility.

Beyond transport, the first minister defended his NHS pledge to end two-year waits within a year, acknowledging possible blocks but maintaining the target. He argued welfare and benefits are not inherently negative as the government balances infrastructure plans with public services.