Evening Post news: Cycling Project in quest for cash

A Major project aimed at getting more people walking and cycling in Swansea and Port Talbot has moved up a gear.Green transport charity Sustrans has drawn up ambitious plans to create a new network of paths across Britain. Called Connect2, it is one of four rival schemes to have made the final shortlist of The People’s £50 million Lottery Giveaway contest run by the Big Lottery Fund.

A public vote to pick a single winner will take place later this year after ITV 1 screens a series of shows about the four projects.And if Sustrans wins it will give a new lease of life to a disused railway bridge between Glais and Clydach as well as creating a new route from Aberavon Beach up through the scenic Afan Valley.

The Afon Tawe Bridge in Clydach has been out of action for years but could be the missing link in a popular cycle path network running through Swansea.

Council leader Chris Holley said bridging the gap would be a boost for tourism in the city as well as encouraging local people to get out and about on their bikes more.

He said: “It would be fantastic if we were successful in obtaining the funding.

“The Afon Tawe Bridge is a vital link between Glais and Clydach.

“The council and Sustrans are continually working to develop and improve the cycle network in Swansea.

“We need the support of local people to help make a successful bid and get the money we need to reopen the bridge.”

Another strand of Connect2 would see the creation of footpaths and cycle paths from Aberavon Beach up to Afan Forest Park, following the route of the River Afan.

Council leader Derek Vaughan said: “We are reaching a critical phase in this exciting project and I would urge the people of Neath Port Talbot to get behind Connect2 and vote when the time comes.

“If all the areas involved provide maximum support, we can win this funding and it will make a considerable difference to residents.

“It will mean safer communities, cleaner air and a better quality of life for everyone.”

Voting will take place online and by phone following a series of TV shows focusing on each of the four projects. Online voting will open at 9am on Monday, November 26, at www.thepeoples50million.org.uk .

Telephone voting will be over the weekend of December 7 to 10.

Link:

To find out more about Connect2 visit:

www.sustransconnect2.org.uk2