A unique gateway feature to the Black Mountain has been created in Lower Brynamman in the Amman Valley.
A stone wall, built using Blue Pennant Stone from the local Gwrhyd Quarry, has been built as an information marker for tourists travelling through Lower Brynamman to get to the Black Mountain and on to the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The profile of the wall represents the rolling hills of the Black Mountain skyline and there is a large, engraved slate welcoming visitors to the area.
Set into the wall are four relief and mosaic panels depicting the local history, industrial heritage and the environment of the area both past and present.
Seating, donated by Gwaun Cae Gurwen Community Council, has been placed at the Gateway where people can sit and relax.
The project has been a partnership between the Council’s Upper Amman Valley Renewal Area, the Welsh Government,Gwaun Cae Gurwen Community Council and Groundwork BNPT. The community gateway aims to recognise the importance of tourism in the future of the Upper Amman Valley and promote the neighbouring villages.
Starting in February last year, community art workshops took place over the summer with help from Groundwork BNPT and artist Carlos Pinatti who created and crafted the panels.
Groundwork led the artistic element of the project, consulting with Ysgol Y Glyn Primary School, Chwiorydd Ebenezer, Marched Y Wawr, the Heritage Society and residents.
Pupils from Ysgol Y Glyn were invited along to the official unveiling this week.
Council Leader, Ali Thomas, said, “The Upper Amman Valley has seen many benefits as a result of being declared a renewal area in 2007.
“Residents of Lower Brynamman and Gwaun Cae Gurwen have seen environmental improvements to their villages and many homes have benefited from external renovation works.
“Tourism is seen as the key to the future of the valleys bringing with it employment and investment and this project acts as an attractive welcoming gateway to a spectacular part of the county borough.”
