A decision on whether an M4 relief road will get the go-ahead from the Welsh Government will be announced in just over a month.
First Minister Mark Drakeford has said this morning that he expects to announce his decision in June.
The report on the so called black route between Newport and Cardiff, following a year-long public inquiry , was submitted with its recommendations to Welsh Government officials last year.
The road has been divisive, with backers of the project say a new 14 mile stretch of motorway is desperately needed due to increasing congestion problems on the existing and ageing M4 in south east Wales, particularly around the Brynglas Tunnels.
However, others say the road will have devastating environmental effects and impact existing communities.
His statement to AMs reads: "Members will be aware that I have been considering carefully the Inspector’s Report and advice from officials on the M4 Project.
"I anticipate that I will be in a position to announce my decision on whether or not to make the legal orders necessary for the project to proceed during the first week of June.
"Once the decision is finalised, a letter setting out the full reasons for the decision will bepublished."A link to electronic versions of the Inspector’s Report in both Welsh and Englishwill also be provided alongside the letter."He had previously said he had received, and was reading the 600-page report, but had not come to a decision.
"Then, he said he was unable to make the announcement during the election period for the Newport West by-election.
The report on the so called black route between Newport and Cardiff, following a year long public inquiry, was submitted with its recommendations to Welsh Government officials last year.
Backers of the project say a new 14 mile stretch of motorway is desperately needed due to increasing congestion problems on the existing and ageing M4 in south east Wales, particularly around the Brynglas Tunnels.
Whatever Mr Drakeford's decision decision there would a six week window for a challenge to the process through a judicial review.
But would still need cabinet approval to fund the project and inclusion in a new supplementary budget,
If the Black Route option is approved the Welsh Government could use its £1bn borrowing powers to part finance the project over 30 years at low interest rates.
The rest could be financed over its construction period from its capital budget.
It could also seek a deal with the UK Government to reclaim VAT on the project.
