New cycling and walking shared path planned for main Penllergaer to Gorseinon route

A new shared use walking and cycle path is being proposed along a main route linking Penllergaer to Gorseinon.

In April this year, Swansea Council received funding through the Welsh Government Active Travel programme to look at the feasibility of a new safe route to accommodate walkers and cyclists along Gorseinon Road (A4240).

Draft proposals for the 2.8km route have now been developed and the Council is seeking views from residents and businesses along the road between the two communities.

The new route would also provide the missing link between two existing sections of cycle and walking network which have previously been developed with Active Travel grant funding.

Mark Thomas, Cabinet Member for Environment Enhancement and Infrastructure Management, said: “In April this year, we received funding from the Welsh Government to assist in expanding our walking and cycle network throughout the city. Some of the funding has been provided to help look at the feasibility of new routes and to design new schemes which we can share with residents.

“The proposals for a new route linking Gorseinon and Penllergaer will be a great benefit for those already walking and cycling. Our hope is that the new link will also encourage even more people to consider leaving the car behind and choosing alternative methods to travel, such as getting on a bike.

“The route is a busy vehicular route so creating a safe off-road route for walkers and cyclists should give people peace of mind they can travel safely if they are nervous about cycling on main roads.

“At this stage, we want residents and businesses to comment on our plans so we can eventually create a route which takes into consideration any concerns.”

The latest plans have already been back by a local primary school. Penyrheol Primary School was recently named as the Wales-wide winners of the Sustrans ‘Big Pedal’ challenge with many of their pupils walking and cycling to school.

Headteacher Alison Williams is calling for more cycle routes to be created to help provide a safe environment for local children. She said: “The development of local safe routes, cycle paths and of course the magnificent Pump Track in our community have significantly influenced the numbers of local children, young people and their families getting on their bikes and scooters for both business and pleasure.

“The linking up of these wonderful safe cycling routes with new cycle track plans is hugely beneficial to the whole community.”

(Lead image: Google Maps)

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