Why was this section of M4 not built as dual 3 lane in late 1970’s?
Welsh Office, as Trunk Road and Motorway Authority, promoted in the mid 1970’s a dual 3 lane motorway. However after two public local inquiries, the Secretary of State (Wales) concurred with the Inspector and decided to build a 2 lane section with over bridges wide enough for 3 lanes in the future if predicted traffic flows increased to very high levels.

Why no Jn 31 - Thornhill?
Junction numbering made provision in the 1970’s for a possible connection of Cardiff’s ‘Hook Road’. However this project was abandoned. Cardiff Council have a planning aspiration for a junction which would need Welsh Assembly Government’s consideration.

Why does traffic queue along this section of motorway?
When high traffic volumes occur, there is insufficient capacity. Joining and leaving traffic at junctions, especially at peak times, worsens the situation resulting in queuing.

On the uphill sections of the motorway, why not sign lorries to use lane 1 to allow cars to overtake thus avoiding congestion?
Normally dual 2 lanes allow lorries to overtake. Whilst uphill gradients slow lorries, these sections are generally short and thus restricting lorries to one lane would not significantly improve overtaking opportunities for faster vehicles.

When widening is complete, what will be done to remove traffic queues on the Newport section of the motorway?
Welsh Assembly Government’s new M4 Relief Road Project will seek to address the capacity problem on the M4 around Newport. The preferred route was amended in April 2006.

Why will it take 2.5 years to achieve the widening?
Four primary phases of widening are planned (See Roadworks Information Sheet No 1). Each phase involves considerable construction work in limited space. (See summary programme in the Site Plans section of this web site)

It is noisier now the trees are felled. What is being done to reduce traffic noise?
There is no scientific evidence that trees muffle sound. However with trees and vegetation cleared, the perception may lead to slightly higher noise levels.

Why fell trees last winter when no construction work has yet taken place?
Between Cardiff Gate (Jn 30) and Coryton (Jn 32), certain areas contain natural species which are protected by European and UK law. In particular to avoid tree and vegetation clearance in the spring which might have affected birds nesting and dormouse hibernation, clearance was undertaken from January 2007, following guidelines prescribed by the Countryside Council for Wales. Construction work will now follow along this section: north side first followed by south side in 2008.

How will traffic travel through the widening works and what delays will occur?
For each phase of widening, traffic will be guided safely through traffic management in 2 lanes in each direction (see Roadworks Information Sheet No 1). Yellow traffic management information signs should be followed and the maximum speed limit of 50mph observed. Cameras throughout the works will help monitor speed of traffic. Delays should be no more than currently exists due to constant, steady speeds.

Will there be night time working?
Occasionally there will be some night time working (See Roadworks Information Sheet No 1). These will be published in advance including messages shown on electronic signs. Every effort will be made to minimise construction noise disturbance.

What diversionary route can I follow between Cardiff Gate and Coryton?
An alternative route is from Jn 30 Cardiff Gate, A48 Eastern Avenue to Gabalfa and northwards along Manor Way to Coryton (Jn 32), and in reverse. However this is longer than between Cardiff Gate and Coryton on the motorway.

Why sign travel time in minutes between Jn 29 and 32?
This gives drivers an idea of how long it takes to travel between the junction in different traffic conditions.

Why change the travel times?
If congestion occurs, then travel times increase.

What natural conservation measures are being undertaken and when?
Extensive measures include badger sett relocation, planting new trees and shrubs, fitting otter netting to fencing and staging construction work to avoid disturbance to animals and reptiles.

What is being done for people who live close to the motorway?
Noise fencing is being erected where calculated noise levels in 15 years time would exceed Government thresholds. Elsewhere, engineering design and selective mounding is proposed.

Is this cost effective when it should have been done in the late 1970’s?
Under the normal highway economics assessment for road schemes, Widening is deemed to be cost effective with benefits substantially exceeding costs. In the late 1970’s other factors led to a dual 2 lane motorway (See 1 and 2 above).

Where can I read more on the technical side of the project?
A Scheme Assessment Report and Non Technical Summary of the Environmental Statement is available in paper form from the Site Public Liaison Officer, Site Offices at Jn 30 Cardiff Gate.

Where are environmental issues summarised?
The Non Technical Summary (see 18 above) summarises effects on people and the natural environment.

Why have Carillion signs appeared in place of Alfred McAlpine signs?
Alfred McAlpine was acquired by Carillion on 12th February 2008. Carillion Plc is one of the UK's leading support services and construction companies, with over 50,000 employees worldwide, and annual revenue of £4bn. We operate throughout the UK, Canada, the Middle East and Caribbean. We have a portfolio of award winning work in areas vital to society: health, education, local and national government, road, rail, defence and building, as well as facilities management and support services. From first concept through design, project finance, construction and maintenance to support services and lifetime asset management, we provide high quality, cost effective and sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of our customers. By living our values, we create a culture that builds long-term relationships with all our customers.

Further information on Carillion can be found on our website at www.carillionplc.com.

Please be assured that the change of company ownership will not affect the progress of the M4 Widening scheme.