News - Walking and cycling routes receive £150,000 boost

21st April 2010

Walking and cycling routes in Blaenavon have received a £150,000 boost after a bid for transport improvements was successful.

Torfaen Council, through the South East Wales Transport Alliance (SEWTA), has been awarded the cash from the Welsh Assembly to better link the tourist attractions and the town centre.

Money will be used for better signage and infrastructure so that walkers and cyclists can more easily access attractions including Big Pit, the Ironworks and World Heritage Centre.

Councillor John Cunningham, interim Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: "This is fantastic news. The funding will provide a welcome boost for residents, cyclists, walkers and tourists in the Blaenavon area. "The money will encourage healthy living and better link the tourist attractions in the town."

Plans for Blaenavon were included in SEWTA's five-year plan. Aside from this bid through SEWTA, the Council is already looking at making transport improvements in north Torfaen.

Welsh Assembly funding to the tune of £200,000 is funding a study looking at ways of improving the infrastructure.

AECOM (formerly Faber Maunsell), on behalf of the Council, is carrying out the study.

Its main objective is to assess the full range of potential transport improvements between Pontypool and Talywain.

The study will look at ways to increase opportunities to access employment within the borough and beyond and help the growth of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site as a tourist destination.