The first steps of a new project to boost the economy of the Dyfi valley, by creating opportunities to enjoy this world celebrated area, are well underway
The aim of the “Darganfod Dyfi Explore Dyfi” project is to develop safe routes – by foot, bike or horse – to neighbouring communities and villages. This will help residents and visitors to travel to local shops, schools, visitor attractions, while at the same time enjoying nature and the breathtakingly beautiful Dyfi valley first hand.
The project is being developed with the communities in the Dyfi biosphere area – from Aberystwyth to Llanbrynmair and from Llanymawddwy to Aberdyfi.
According to Helen Howells, CCW’s Countryside Officer:
“The funding for the project isn’t unlimited and we wanted to provide people the opportunities that best suited them. So over the summer we have held a series of community consultation events where residents suggested the sorts of paths and trails needed in their area and where we should focus our work.
“More than 130 maps were created during the events, providing the team with a wealth of information. We will now look at how we can incorporate these suggestions into the project.”
Among the suggestions were:
- Improvements for pram access
- Routes to encourage people to cycle to work or school safely
- Linking existing paths with Dyfi Junction train station
- Enhancing interpretation of the areas rich cultural heritage
- The business potential for the area from increasing horse riding opportunities
“During the Autumn, the Darganfod Dyfi team will be looking at these suggestions and assessing them against the project criteria. We will then be selecting the routes to improve. Once the routes are chosen, the team will contact
the local communities to start developing the interpretation and promotional elements of the project” concluded Helen Howells.
The project is part of a wider £16million scheme – Communities and Nature, or CAN. CCW leads this scheme, which is backed by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Assembly Government. It is aimed at boosting jobs and leisure opportunities based on the outstanding wildlife and landscape of North and West Wales.
Emyr Thomas, CAN Project Manager said:
“The high quality of the natural environment in Wales is already recognised as an important asset in attracting visitors and an important driver of economic and social wellbeing. Over 130,000 people are employed in jobs associated with the natural environment, generating nearly £2,000million.
If you want to know more about the Darganfod Dyfi Explore Dyfi Project then please contact Andy Bramwell, Darganfod Dyfi Project Officer on 01970 63 1160.
