£17m level crossing and new bridge proposals could be a ‘game changer for Pencoed’

Public consultation is set to take place over plans that could transform the centre of Pencoed and deliver some of Bridgend County Borough’s biggest ever transport infrastructure improvements.

Between Monday 8 November 2021 – Sunday 30 January 2022, people will be asked for their views on ambitious plans to address long-standing traffic congestion issues in Pencoed which have prevented new development and economic investment from taking place.  

If approved, the £17m plans will enable the eventual closure of Pencoed’s level railway crossing by rebuilding the Penprysg road bridge so that it can accommodate two-way traffic, and creating a safe, all-new active travel bridge over the line for pedestrians and cyclists.

The plans will also unlock potential development land located to the west of the current level crossing and enable fresh investment and facilities to be introduced.

Incorporating a survey which is available in a range of different formats and a series of drop-in events where people can find out more and ask questions, feedback from the consultation will be analysed and reported to the Cabinet of Bridgend County Borough Council before any final decision is made. The drop-in sessions will take place at:

• Tuesday 9 November – Pencoed Campus of Bridgend College, 2pm-4pm.
• Saturday 13 November - Pencoed Pavilion, Felindre Road, 10am-12pm.
• Monday 15 November - Pencoed Town Council (Salem Chapel), 6pm- 8pm.
• Friday 3 December - Pencoed Library, 10am-12pm.

You can find out more, view answers to frequently asked questions and complete the consultation survey online at the council website, or request an alternative format by emailing consultation@bridgend.gov.uk, calling 01656 643664 or writing to Communications, Marketing and Engagement, Bridgend County Borough Council, Civic Offices, Angel Street, Bridgend CF31 4WB.

Councillor Stuart Baldwin, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “As one of four town centres located within Bridgend County Borough, Pencoed is unique in that both of its two main routes cross over the Swansea-to-London railway line.

“As a result, the local highway network is under considerable strain as traffic has to queue either at the level crossing or to use the bridge at Penprysg, which is currently only capable of supporting vehicles in one direction at a time.

“The impact of this congestion restricts the town’s future capacity for growth, stifles the local economy and creates pollution and environmental problems.

“It also poses further difficulties ranging from delays for commercial bus services to suitable access for people using wheelchairs, bicycles and pushchairs.

“These proposals aim to ease the town’s congestion problems, increase safety and deliver new improvements for residents and businesses alike by separating the road from the railway line.

“They have been carefully developed in partnership through a steering group featuring representatives from the local community, Chris Elmore MP, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, the local council, Welsh Government, Network Rail, Transport for Wales and Pencoed Town Council.

“The plans represent one of the largest investments into local transport infrastructure that Bridgend County Borough has ever seen, but any work would be carefully organised in order to keep temporary disruption at an absolute minimum.

“If approved, this could be an absolute game-changer for Pencoed. I hope that as many people as possible will make use of the drop-in sessions to find out more, and will take part in the consultation when it launches on Monday 8 November.”

Bill Kelly, Route Director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, added: “We’ve been working very closely with local elected representatives and Bridgend County Borough Council on the future of Pencoed Level Crossing. This is an opportunity for local people to have their say, and we’re looking forward to hearing their feedback.”