Path collapse near Tumble
The Walk Wheel Cycle Trust Cymru (formerly Sustrans) confirmed that a landslide has taken out part of the route linking Tumble and Pontyberem. The charity’s estates team has been on site to close the affected section and warn users not to approach the area.
A spokesperson said:
“Please do not approach the site as it is extremely dangerous and unstable. Our team are working to close the path and ensure route users are aware on the ground. We are working with local partners to secure the site and it will remain closed. A diversion will be put in place as soon as possible.”
Council urges public to stay away
Carmarthenshire County Council confirmed the landslide and said the area has been fenced off. A spokesperson added:
“There has been a significant landslide which has taken out a section of the Sustrans Cycle Route linking Tumble and Pontyberem. We urge the public to keep away from the area for safety reasons. The path is owned and maintained by Sustrans, now known as the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.”
Climate change warning
Local Member of the Senedd Lee Waters described the collapse as a stark reminder of the impact of extreme weather. Sharing an image of the damaged path, he said:
“The impact of flooding is being felt right across the local area today. This picture of the cycle path washed away near Tumble is a pretty stark illustration of how climate change is impacting us here and now – the experts are agreed that heavy rainfall and more intense storms are a direct consequence of man‑made climate change.”
He also thanked the emergency services, Carmarthenshire Council and local volunteers for their efforts in supporting communities affected by flooding over the past 24 hours.
Wider flooding impact
The landslide comes as Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident following more than 450 flooding‑related calls in 12 hours, with rescues carried out in Whitland, Ferryside, Kidwelly, Lampeter and St Clears. Swansea has also been hit, with Cwmbwrla roundabout once again submerged.
Many users of route 47 are heading up from Swansea area and many more from Llanelli, where the route begins. I cycled from Furnace to Crosshands yesterday and there was no warning of closure until I came to the barrier at Horeb, about five miles up the track! I had to take the strenuous detour over Sylen mountain (not indicated!) Pity the oh-so-concerned council couldn’t be bothered to place a few warning signs Llanelli end. And no warning for the fallen trees on the Swiss Valley section either. Given this casual approach to public information I hope they won’t be too surprised if some choose to simply shrug and by-pass the barrier. There’s already a walker-sized gap at one end.