NEWPORT motorists could be hit with further delays - with two more controversial bus lanes planned near to the city centre.

Under the proposals, work would be carried out northbound from the Harlequin Roundabout to the Shell Garage on Malpas Road and a small section southbound on the approach to the Lyceum Tavern bus stop.

Councillor Graham Dally, cabinet member for transport and sustainable development, said: "The proposal is for another two stretches of bus lane and road improvements on Malpas Road, to build refuges for pedestrians when crossing the road.

"The works are part of the government policy to help get people to use more buses."

Councillor Dally said the council would not be taking any parking away from in front of the shops in Malpas Road, and this would reduce any impact on traders.

He added that as well as improving bus times the lanes should provide taxis and cyclists with a safe route to travel along.

He said that the plans were in the consultation period and people's objections would be taken into consideration.

But Councillor Matthew Evans, opposition spokesman for transport and sustainable development, said: "It is a complete and utter waste of money to be working on small sections of bus lane like this."

He said the work would bring further congestion to the city centre and could deter people from shopping in Newport altogether.

Councillor Evans said: "It is particularly ironic when we seem to be having a cutback on the number of bus services provided."

Last year the council's decision to create a bus lane on Clarence Place sparked outrage from some traders.

Hi-fi and electrical store A E Hughes & Sons closed shortly after the lane opened, saying it was the final straw.

Work began last month on creating a bus lane along Cardiff Road, with the council planning the details carefully to avoid traffic chaos.

Councillor Evans added that the congestion could be a factor in the Sainsbury store at Shaftsbury wanting to relocate outside of the city centre, to land at Crindau.

Last November Sainsbury started a petition against the bus lanes, which more than 2,500 shoppers signed.

Councillor Evans said: "We want to regenerate Newport and if Sainsbury leaves the area that will be one more reason for fewer people to come into the city centre.

"It is going to be a nightmare and I urge people with objections to attend the public exhibition."

This will be held on Thursday, November 7 between 12.30pm and 8.30pm at the Community Centre on Evans Street.