SIR,

Avid readers of these columns may recall a year or so back there was talk of a 'Gateway to Wales' sculpture on the A40 Dixton Island which, ironically, powers that be had decreed must have no Welsh heritage inference.

Recent events, however, conspire to give residents of Monmouth a unique opportunity to show beyond all doubt pride in our town and make a statement.

Old Monnow Bridge and its arches are internationally known and we are now able to expand its instant recognition into the 21st century, perhaps with section 106 funding from a current planning proposal.

When approaching Monmouth from Ross, visitors would be impressed by a large 'M' for Monmouth spanning both carriageways and the island.

If yellow it would compliment saturation planting of spring daffodils on the verges and central reservations. Lit at night it would enhance street lighting.

Initial assessment indicates this sculpture would be 200ft high. As yellow deceleration lines are soon to be renovated, they would be transformed from straight to a series of letter 'M's across the two lanes, further enhancing and echoing the Monmouth theme. Likewise on opposite direction carriageway approaching the island.

To mark their exit from Monmouth, another 'M' would be erected on the face of Gibraltar Tunnels with drivers passing between its legs. A whole new concept of 'Drive Thru'.

At the other end a similar 'M' would greet them from the opposite direction.

The Old Monnow Bridge itself would be updated by yellow letter 'M' from water level of Monnow to a height suitable for proportions of existing arches, while pedestrian approach from St Thomas' Square would be enhanced with a more modest size 'M' near roof level, again sympathetically matching existing stone arched detailing.

Detailed proposals are being finalised for presentation on 1st April.

Gwilym Neuadd

(Monmouth)