A TRIAL to create a single lane carriageway at the narrow end of Monnow Street will start as soon as the recent resurfacing works are completed.

The suggestion by Vision Monmouth, and adopted by Monmouth Town Council, will also see the pavements made wider to allow for easier pedestrian movements.

The traffic flow will then rely on drivers of opposing vehicles to concede the passage alternately.

An update was given to the Central Monmouthshire Area Committee last Wednesday (16th September) where councillors were briefed on how the trial will effect the safety of pedestrians.

Paul Keeble, Traffic and Network Manager for Monmouthshire County Council (MCC), spoke to Monmouth Town Council on Monday night (21st September), and assured them that the scheme will begin within three to four weeks.

He said council officers would monitor the area and look for feedback from motorists and pedestrians; “We have asked Gwent Police to help enforce illegal parking in that area at the start of the trial” he added.

He also spoke about the provision of new crossing points further down Monnow Street as there was limited places for pedestrians to cross from one side to another and make it a “safer and more pleasant environment”.

Roger Hoggins, Operations Manager for MCC added that he understood there would be ‘some inconvenience’ to cars to begin with but he hoped the scheme would gain support from councillors to give it a reasonable chance to prove itself; “There should be a balance with supporting pedestrians,” he added.