The Welsh Liberal Democrats have said they are "not interested in political point scoring" after coming under fire from a Conservative politician over a £400,000 feasibility study into long-awaited safety improvements at the hazardous Pontybat crossroads.

The party described the funding - secured as part of the Welsh Government’s budget deal earlier this year - as “a genuine victory for those who rely on the Pontybat junction,” which has long been flagged as a danger spot on the A470.

But Conservative MS for Brecon and Radnorshire, James Evans, challenged the announcement in the Senedd this week, warning that without further financial commitment, the feasibility study alone would not deliver real change on the ground.

He said this scheme was originally estimated to cost £7.2 million before it was shelved by the Government's roads review.

Mr Evans said anyone “with an ounce of common sense” would realise that without any additional resources committed to the project, it will not proceed to the design and build stage.

He said: “The Liberal Democrats have recently told people of the promise of a new roundabout, but with no concrete plans.

“It seems the only roundabout they're delivering is the magic roundabout - all spin and no substance.”

He asked Transport Secretary, Ken Skates, whether this money is a genuine commitment to road safety and if the funding is there to deliver more than just a feasibility study.

Or, asked Mr Evans, was this just an exercise designed to put the next gesture on a Liberal Democrat leaflet when we all see “the two-horse race”.

Mr Skates confirmed the feasibility study at Pontybat was being undertaken “in conjunction with the Welsh Liberal Democrats.”

“I shouldn't come between two opposition parties and their disagreement. But what I will say is that the normal process is followed whenever we look at potential new road schemes,” he said.

“First of all, you go through the feasibility study, which is what we're financing. Then, you look at the options - and you're presented normally with a series of options for improvements.

“Then you move to the business case, and then to final funding and basically sign-off. That's the process that's followed in every case.

“I think it's absolutely vital as we look to improve road safety and that we examine every junction and stretch of road that is particularly dangerous.”

A spokesperson for the Welsh Liberal Democrats said: “The Welsh Liberal Democrats are not interested in political point scoring but in delivering for local residents.

“The recent budget deal marks a genuine victory for those who rely on the Pontybat junction in south Powys.

“Jane secured the first stage of the development in a list of key priorities and delivers for local people.

“In addition, Jane secured money for the Wyeside Arts Centre in Builth Wells and for local roadside toilets in four locations on main roads in Brecon and Radnorshire, as well as £30 million for childcare in Wales, £30 million for social care and additional monies for local authorities, including Powys.”