A ‘preferred option’ to the Secret Garden Scheme on a notorious stretch of the A4042 has been identified, according to the Welsh Government.

Following the completion of feasibility works and technical assessments, the Deputy Transport Minister, Mark Hooper MS, has said he is committed to ensuring the scheme makes it through the next phase of the development, but it is currently not possible to provide a definitive programme for delivery.

A design process will now be completed and an accurate cost estimation drawn up before any decision can be made on whether any project will go ahead.

Nonetheless, the latest update has been welcomed by a Senedd Member for Sir Fynwy Torfaen and County Councillor who have been campaigning for a safety solution in the area.

“This once again shows the power of local working and collective effort,” Peter Fox MS said.

“I am very grateful to Cllr Butler for all of her work on this scheme, by beginning a petition and getting the support of residents to push this forward.”

“Whilst we do not yet have a timeframe, the update from Welsh Government is welcome, and I will continue working with Cllr Butler to ensure these vital safety improvements are completed.”

Meanwhile, County Councillor Jan Butler, who represents the Goetre Fawr Ward on Monmouthshire Council, has said it is rewarding to see the Welsh Government take up the project so quickly after taking office.

“I am so pleased to hear that the Minister has taken up this project so quickly and that we are moving closer to a solution to make safe the access to the Secret Garden,” she said.

“Since running my petition back in 2023, which reached the Senedd Petition’s Committee, I have been keeping a close eye on progress for this project.

“It will be a major safety benefit for all users of the A4042 if there is finally a solution to this inherently unsafe access to a very popular Garden Centre.”