**Hundreds of Jobs Threatened as Authorities Demand Immediate Action over M48 Severn Bridge Restrictions**
Concerns are mounting in South Wales as a long-standing weight restriction on the M48 Severn Bridge threatens the security of hundreds of local jobs. Key political figures and business leaders are urgently pressing for a swift resolution, highlighting the significant economic repercussions for the region.
The current ban prevents heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) from using the historic crossing between England and Wales, diverting lorries onto alternative routes. The resulting detours are creating considerable financial strain on logistics-dependent companies based near the bridge. For example, retail giant Asda estimates its costs have soared by more than £1.1 million due to the diversions—a direct blow to its operations at the Newhouse Farm Industrial Estate.
Approximately 3,000 people are employed at this major industrial site, many of whom are worried about the future of their workplaces. Reports have emerged that some businesses may consider relocating their operations to Bristol if a timely solution is not found, threatening a mass loss of local employment.
In response, Monmouth MP Catherine Fookes and Monmouthshire County Council cabinet member Catrin Maby recently met with the UK roads minister, Lilian Greenwood, to push for urgent government intervention. This summit followed Ms Fookes’ raising of the issue in Parliament, underlining the breadth of concern from both the public and private sectors.
During discussions, the local leaders described the current scenario as “unsustainable”, warning that the lengthy timeframe suggested for repairs remains unacceptable. National Highways has proposed a wait of between 12 and 18 months for full restoration work—a period which businesses and community leaders say could see irreversible damage to the workforce and regional economy.
One proactive suggestion tabled during the meeting involved deploying technical measures such as a controlled access system using number plate recognition. Such technology could potentially permit HGVs to cross the bridge safely in a managed way, providing immediate relief while structural assessments and repairs continue. The idea was presented as a practical stop-gap to protect supply chains and local jobs.
There are also calls for much clearer, regular communication from National Highways. Monmouthshire County Council has emphasised the importance of keeping local companies fully informed about progress, and insists the agency must be held publicly accountable for both the repair timeline and its impact on the community.
Alongside business concerns, Cllr Maby highlighted the unintended knock-on effects of diverting lorry traffic onto local roads. Increased HGV volumes are clogging alternative routes and particularly affecting the Magor junction, raising the risk of congestion and road safety issues for residents and commuters alike.
The roads minister responded by acknowledging the significant challenges facing both businesses and the local economy. She confirmed that her department has already been in dialogue with National Highways over the matter, and promised to follow up to seek clarity on the potential for short-term technical solutions and an updated repair schedule.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms Fookes reiterated her support for safety measures but stressed the urgent need to safeguard regional jobs and livelihoods. “A solution in 12 or 18 months is simply not good enough,” she asserted, vowing to continue pressing for every possible interim measure.
Cllr Maby echoed those sentiments, acknowledging the priority of safety whilst emphasising that the local authority remains steadfast in assisting businesses and residents. She welcomed the minister’s engagement and expressed hope that a revised plan could accelerate the resolution of the crisis.
As the situation develops, the community awaits further updates, hoping that decisive action will arrive before the economic toll becomes irreversible. The ongoing uncertainty has turned the Severn Bridge’s repair programme into a matter of regional urgency—placing immense pressure on authorities to deliver answers and preserve jobs in Monmouthshire and beyond.