Welsh Government vows "biggest infrastructure investment since devolution"

The Welsh Government has outlined plans for what it says will be the biggest investment in transport infrastructure since devolution, with upgrades to the M4, A55, A40 and A494, a South Wales Metro and North Wales Metro, third Menai crossing and a new rail franchise.

The Welsh economy secretary Ken Skates said his objective to invest billions would need "better-informed planning of our transport network" with updated appraisal of transport projects. He also wanted devolution of funding for rail infrastructure and to use the new Wales and Borders franchise to secure investment and powers over Air Passenger Duty. He announced the inquiry into the long-planned M4 upgrade will start in February.

Skates has vowed to "build like never before" and the Welsh Government has signalled a positive response from the European Commission over the continuation of funding for the South Wales Metro project despite the vote to Leave the European Union. He said: "Our historic, multi-billion pound investment shows how serious this Welsh Government is about delivering a world-class transport system - one that sustainably connects people and communities to jobs and services."