The threat of compulsory purchase orders is hanging over a number of properties in Magor as work on an M4 relief road is due to go ahead. The Welsh Government last Wednesday (16th July) confirmed the 'Black Route' – a new section of three-lane motorway between junctions 23 and 29 – as its preferred option as it tackles congestion problems around the Brynglas tunnels. The new relief road will follow a route known as TR111, which runs between Magor and Castleton, going through Newport docks, and has been protected for planning purposes since 2006. The Beacon understands a number of properties along the Newport Road were bought by the Welsh Government a couple of years ago. Other home and business owners have been concerned about the possible compulsory purchase orders, and are now waiting to hear the effect of the latest announcement. The Welsh Government's 'M4 Corridor Around Newport – The Plan' document says: "There will be on-going dialogue with key stakeholders and land owners who may be directly affected by the scheme." Speaking of the possible disruption, a Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We will seek to minimise impact on local residents in developing the M4 Corridor around Newport. "Details of any land required to construct the scheme will be set out in a draft Compulsory Purchase Order, expected to be published in Spring 2016." 'Complementary measures' will include reclassifying the existing M4 between Magor and Castleton as a trunk road; improving connections between the M4, M48 and B4245; and the provision of cycle and walking-friendly infrastructure. Transport minister Edwina Hart said: "It is vital for Wales to have a transport system that provides access to jobs and services and improves our nation's economic competitiveness. "For many years, traffic congestion has been a fact of life for those using the M4 around Newport. "Unreliable journey times impact on people's ability to take up job opportunities and discourages investment from high value businesses. "To tackle this, we have identified the need for substantial improvements to the network between Magor and Castleton. Working with local communities, we have carried out extensive work and consultation in the development of the draft plan. "A public consultation between September and December 2013 allowed everyone to have their say." The plan has been criticised by environmental groups as it will cut through the Gwent levels. Pippa Bartolotti, leader of the Wales Green Party, said: "What an appalling decision. "To spend £1billion on this short-sighted environmental wrecking scheme flies in the face of all reasoned arguments put forward against it. "This money should be spent on bravely constructing the models of the future, such as excellent health and education, clean energy from our enviable natural resources and model public transport. "Generations to come will have to suffer the loss of wildlife, the concrete, the unthinkable debt, and the pollution this will encourage. With open cast coal mining, a fossil fuel-based economy and poor public transport, Wales has become a paradise for polluters."