Shock at M4 relief road decision

A judicial review has concluded that Friends of the Earth Cymru does not have sufficient evidence to mount a full challenge against the Welsh government regarding the construction of a relief road around Newport, RSPB Cymru has announced. The charity has said that it is "shocked and disappointed" at the decision, which was revealed on 26 March.

The so-called Black Route, an M4 relief road to ease congestion around Newport, will run through part of the Gwent Levels. Much of the levels are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and are home to a variety of rare and declining animal and plant species, including Northern Lapwing.

The 'Black Route' will run through parts of the Gwent Levels, much of which are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest
(Photo: David Wootton/RSPB images)

The review considered whether FoE Cymru could mount a challenge based on three grounds for concern:

• The Welsh government failed in its duties in relation to the conservation and enhancement of the SSSIs and didn't acknowledge the harm the plan will do to those protected sites.
• The government didn't identify, describe and evaluate reasonable alternatives.
• The government didn't consider an increase in carbon emissions if the new road is built in the context of its own climate change policies and emission targets.

However, the judge backed the Welsh government and so the challenge will not go ahead.

Dr Sean Christian of RSPB Cymru said: "To build a road through one of the most protected sites in south-east Wales is sacrilege. This is an area rich in wildlife and history, and cherished by the Welsh people.

"If the Gwent Levels were a painting it would be the Mona Lisa: it is an area of outstanding beauty, renowned all over the world for its special wildlife and habitats. It should be protected for eternity, for future generations to enjoy. To disfigure such a unique area is a pure act of vandalism.

"The destruction of the natural environment this new road would cause is unnecessary and makes a mockery of the Welsh government's commitment to sustainability and preserving our natural treasures for future generations."