A section of the long-awaited cycle path in Carmarthenshire’s Towy Valley is set to open before Easter, bringing excitement to cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts in the region. The 13-mile Towy Valley path is a significant council-led project that aims to connect Abergwili, on the outskirts of Carmarthen, with Ffairfach, just south of Llandeilo. This project, supported by £16.7m of UK Government funding, has faced delays due to various challenges, but progress is being made towards its completion.
Last year, Cabinet Member Cllr Edward Thomas highlighted the importance of the project and expressed confidence in delivering it within the specific deadline set by the UK Government. Despite encountering setbacks such as bad weather, ecology work, and land access issues, the project is moving forward, with a projected completion date in the 2025-26 timeframe. The recent update indicates that the western section between Abergwili and Nantgaredig is expected to open before Easter, providing a glimpse of the path’s potential.
The council’s commitment to the project is evident with an allocation of £1.8m of its own funds, further emphasising the significance of the cycle path for the community. The initial phase of the shared-use path was identified by engineers in 2013, with small sections completed in 2018 and 2019. However, progress was hindered until the project received a substantial grant of £16.7m from Westminster’s Levelling Up Fund in 2021. This additional funding has extended the completion deadline to March 2026.
Aside from enhancing the region’s cycling infrastructure, the Towy Valley path is expected to attract more visitors, create connections to key sites, and potentially contribute £4.4m annually to the local economy. Furthermore, the path aligns with plans for a proposed Llandeilo bypass by the Welsh Government, offering new opportunities for cyclists and pedestrians alongside the road. These developments signify positive steps towards improving sustainable transport options in the area.
In a broader context, the council’s capital spending programme includes various projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and leisure facilities across Carmarthenshire. Despite adjustments to the spending forecast for 2024-25, notable investments like the Pentre Awel health and leisure development in Llanelli demonstrate a commitment to improving public amenities. However, some planned projects have been curtailed or postponed, reflecting the challenges of balancing budgets and priorities.
As the Towy Valley cycle path progresses towards completion, it stands as a testament to collaborative efforts between local government, community stakeholders, and funding partners. The resilience shown in overcoming obstacles and staying on course to deliver this vital infrastructure project underscores the dedication to promoting active lifestyles and sustainable transport solutions in the region. With the upcoming opening of a section of the path, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to exploring the scenic Towy Valley on two wheels in the near future.