THERE is no quick solution for repairs after the A40 landslip near Monmouth, the town’s MP has been told.

At a meeting on Friday (8 March), David Davies heard that until remedial work has been completed at the site of the rock fall, National Highways “won’t know what the long-term solution is” – but it is likely to be months.

The good news, Mr Davies said, is officials are reviewing the current traffic management layout and lane restriction on the eastbound approach to Dixton roundabout, which is adding to Monmouth’s woes as the town continues to be “bombarded” by roadworks.

“I have been given assurances that the landslip is being dealt with as the highest priority and this is not a scheduling delay but a complex issue due to the geographical aspects involved,” said Mr Davies.

“I impressed upon National Highways the urgency of carrying out permanent repairs. But until remedial work has taken place, we won’t know what the long-term solution looks like or associated timescales.

“All we do know at this stage is that it is going to be several months. My sincere hope is more serious problems are not discovered on the hillside which could potentially hamper things even further.

“I was originally told that changing the placement of traffic management tapers, which is the design to merge two lanes into one on the approach to Dixton roundabout, did not appear to be an option.

“However, I am pleased this is being looked at again and the suggestion is there will be new proposals in the next week or so to help minimise disruption.”

Mr Davies said he spoke to several high street traders on Friday afternoon, including one who is reducing opening hours due to a lack of footfall.

“I still think Monmouthshire County Council needs to stop work on the active travel route at the bottom of town, which is adding to the misery while Welsh Water digs up Monnow Street, and introduce some measure of free parking in the town to support traders and encourage shoppers to use the high street,” added Mr Davies.