Welsh Government roads review

[4] In 2019, the Welsh Government declared a climate emergency, and set 2050 as a target date for Wales to achieve net zero emissions; significant policy changes, compared to those in place when many of the road investment scheme were first conceived.

Both call for miles driven by cars to be reduced by 10% by 2030, and for active travel and public transport to account for an increased modal share of 39% by 2030 and 45% by 2040.

Another report said that the Welsh government's pre-existing policy would have only delivered "just over one fifth" of the changes to modal shift needed for net zero.

[3] In June 2021, Deputy Minister for Climate Change, Lee Waters, announced the review of funding for new road schemes by the Welsh Government.

[8] The review was conducted by a panel comprising those from the transport policy, highway engineering, climate change, and freight/logistics sectors.

[8] The roads review panel was appointed by Lee Waters, deputy minister for climate change in September 2021.

[12] Specific major examples include the planned Third Menai Crossing, the Flintshire Red Route and the A483 Wrexham improvements,[10] in North Wales.

[10] Some representatives of the construction industry, specifically that of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, warned the report and the subsequent cancellation of projects could put jobs at risk, and asked for clarity on future infrastructure investment.

[10] Welsh Conservatives leader Andrew RT Davies, criticised the decision, stating it was "Utter madness".

While Plaid Cymru MS Delyth Jewell agreed on reducing Wales' over-reliance on cars, but stated that there should also be a focus on a transition period, as many areas are "already underserved by public transport links".

Sloman stated that over 30 meetings were conducted with key stakeholders, and engaged with 25 organisations, the third sector, young people, professional institutions, and 14 local authorities.