Calls for a new River Severn road crossing have emerged as councillors warn growing housing numbers in the Forest of Dean could add even more pressure to roads already causing headaches for drivers in Chepstow. The debate has been reignited by severe congestion caused by lane restrictions on the A40 at Over, near Gloucester, where National Highways is carrying out essential repair work, reports the South Wales Argus.

Some councillors believe the disruption highlights the need for a new crossing south of Over Bridge to provide another route between the Forest of Dean and Gloucestershire.

The issue has renewed concerns about transport links across the wider region, including routes through Chepstow, Monmouth and the Wye Valley.

Forest of Dean District Council is expected to find land for around 13,000 new homes over the next 20 years under Government housing targets. Some councillors fear existing roads will struggle to cope unless major infrastructure improvements are delivered.

Westbury-on-Severn councillor Simon Phelps said traffic problems in Chepstow were already a “nightmare” and warned additional housing growth could worsen congestion across the area.

He said: “It’s something that needs to be taken into consideration when they talk about 13,000 homes in the district. The traffic at Chepstow is also a nightmare and there are issues between Coleford and Monmouth.”

Several possible locations for a new Severn crossing have been considered in the past, including routes linking Minsterworth with Gloucester and the M5. However, plans never progressed because of the huge costs involved.

One proposal supported by councillors would see a crossing follow the route of the former Severn Railway Bridge between Purton and Sharpness. Others favour a new bridge near Minsterworth.

(Picture: Paul Hutton/Highways News)