Temporary lights blamed for causing traffic problems in Abergavenny town centre will be removed in time for the National Eisteddfod which starts on Saturday.

The current system, put in place to guide traffic past scaffolding on Monk Street, has been blamed by drivers for causing heavy congestion at peak times, with the longest tailbacks reaching Station Road.

Speaking at a recent a town council meeting, Councillor John Prosser said the temporary lights would be removed prior to the event start on July 31.

“The spotlight, not just in Wales, but from the wider UK, will be on Abergavenny and we have to make sure nothing is overlooked. So, the lights will be going, I’m told,” he said.

Officials at Monmouthshire County Council also made assurances that traffic issues would be minimised, as an expected 150,000 people visit Abergavenny over the week-long Welsh cultural event.

?A spokeswoman added that contingency plans were already in place to help avoid any disruption.

“The council is in contact with the Welsh Government over the scaffolding on Monk Street, which is due to be removed before the National Eisteddfod.

“In any case, we plan to minimise traffic in Abergavenny’s centre during the National Eisteddfod by employing a free park & ride service running from three sites at Cwrt-y-Gollen near Crickhowell, Llanellen and Penpergwm. 

“Each site has capacity for 1,500 cars and the service will be effectively communicated to all ticket holders and marketed to day visitors in advance.

“Professional traffic management will control the journeys of buses from each site to the entrance of Byefield Lane car park.

 

“A park and ride service will also operate from Maes B (the youth area) and the caravan site while a service connecting Abergavenny train station will run on demand,” he added.

Council officials also said some delays were unavoidable, and that locals should plan in advance to avoid any delays. ??