Lives are at risk until a permanent solution to solve persistent flooding is found, a Senedd member and Tory colleagues have warned.

The A4042, which includes the Llanellen Bridge, is the main route for Abergavenny residents three miles away to access the new Grange Hospital near Cwmbran.

However, the area has been subjected to persistent flooding, meaning the crucial pathway to the hospital is frequently blocked.

This then leaves residents from the surrounding area with no option but to use the B4269, which leads to bottle-neck congestion in the village of Llanellen.

Peter Fox, Conservative Senedd Member for Monmouth, has been joined by Llanfoist Fawr community councillor Hannah Jarvis, and fellow Tory Dr Tomos Davies, prospective county councillor for Llanfoist Fawr and Govilon, in demanding that a sustainable solution is found.

Mr Fox said: “Flooding at Llanellen Bridge and the surrounding area has been a perennial problem for my constituents, with the area being blighted by the problem for far too long.

“This road is, quite literally, a lifeline for my constituents and when flooding disrupts journeys for those with a medical emergency there could be serious consequences.

“This week I’ve called on the Minister for Climate Change to find a permanent solution to this problem.”

Dr Davies said: “The residents of Llanellen have been crystal-clear with voicing their grave concerns over flooding and congestion.

“These crucial issues need to be solved without any further delay because the congestion – from the diverted traffic - is endangering children and elderly residents. This is simply unacceptable.

“Time is of the essence to solve flooding in this area, and I warmly join my colleague, Peter Fox, in calling for urgent action.”

And Cllr Jarvis added: “As a former Llanellen resident, I experienced these problems at first-hand and therefore fully appreciate these concerns, especially those of parents worried about the safety of their children from the impact of flooding and diverted traffic.

“And I back calls for a solution to be found without delay.”