MEMBER of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has written to the Welsh Government about the ongoing speed restriction on the M48.

The ‘temporary’ 50mph speed limit was initiated on the M48 between the M4 and Chepstow on September 11 2023, and was originally in place for 18 months.

It was renewed on March 11 2025 for a further 18 months, an dis due to expire on August 11 2026. Despite being in place for just over 130 weeks , there appears to have been no progress in repairing the reportedly defective barrier, which is apparent reason for the limit.

The Monmouth MS has been vocal in seeking updates and expediting the works to reduce the impact on motorists and has written again to the Welsh Government to request a firm timeline on when the works will begin and the limit removed.

Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, said: “Whilst I appreciate the barriers are in need of work, I think it is getting somewhat ridiculous that we are now over 130 weeks down the road and nothing has been done.

“This part of Monmouthshire has been further hampered by restrictions on the M48 Severn Crossing, and I know there is a lot of frustration in the area about this speed limit.

“A typical commuter would see around 23 minutes added to their journey times each week by this reduced limit, which means they have been delayed by approximately 51 hours since these works began in 2023.

“I have asked the Welsh Government for a firm timetable on when these works are due to begin, be finished, and when motorists can finally have some reprieve.”

County Councillor for St Kingsmark, Christopher Edwards, has added: “I often get contacted by many residents who are frustrated and confused by the ongoing ‘temporary’ 50mph speed limit on the M48, which only adds to the traffic congestion in and around Chepstow area.

“Commuters’ patience has always been wearing thin when it comes to Welsh Government getting on with any highways job in hand, and it’s about time the government wakes up to the fact that people will always need working and more effective highways for less disruption to their daily lives.”