Walkers can benefit from improved access to a woodland near Abercynon thanks to work carried out by Forestry Commission Wales and the Cardiff BTCV group.
Pen Parc wood has an extensive network of footpaths, tracks and informal paths, many of which lead to far-reaching views, but some of these routes have become overgrown and inaccessible to walkers.
Now, thanks to the recent work to clear encroaching vegetation, walkers can once again enjoy the ridge-top walk on Pen y Foel and the paths leading to the dramatic rock outcrop at Darren y Foel, overlooking the Cynon Valley. The path that links Carntown School with Pen Parc farm has also been opened up.
Pen Parc wood is managed by Forestry Commission Wales on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government. Local Area Manager Karl Charlton said, “This wood is well used by people from Abercynon and Ynysybwl and the work to improve the walking routes here was triggered by requests from local community groups and residents.
“I’m really pleased with the results and with the support provided by the BTCV and I hope Pen Parc wood will be enjoyed by the community for years to come.”
This work forms part of an ongoing programme to open up pathways and viewpoints in woodlands managed by Forestry Commission Wales. Future plans for Pen Parc wood include enhancing the viewpoint that overlooks Darren y Foel by removing trees above the rock outcrop.
The main entrance to Pen Parc wood can be found at Cardiff Road, Carntown (Ordnance Survey reference ST 078953).
