A special corner of the Llŷn Peninsula is accessible to the public for the first time, thanks to the opening of a new public footpath which forms part of the Gwynedd coastal path.
The new pathway – which will be 3.5km long and runs through Cim farm at Bwlchtocyn – will provide a magnificent view of St Tudwal’s islands. This will be the first time the public can see this view of Cardigan Bay from land, as the old path turns inland between Porth Ceiriad and Machroes.
Rhys Roberts, Gwynedd Council’s Coastline Access Officer, said:
“We are delighted to see this new pathway open to the public. The Council has been negotiating new access rights for three years and we are pleased that we can agree on the way ahead.
“This is an exciting scheme as it opens up a corner of the Llŷn coastline which has remained hidden before now. It gives access to some stunning views of Cardigan Bay and of St Tudwal’s islands that weren’t as accessible from the old path.”
The landowner was keen for the scheme to restore the old traditional coastal hedgerows as it’s an important habitat for the chough. The new path will give the opportunity to see views of Cardigan Bay and also wildlife at its best.
Gareth Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Environmental Service’s Senior Manager, added:
“We hope local people will make the most of the new coastal path – it gives an amazing opportunity to enjoy some brilliant coastal views in Gwynedd. It’s also our hope that Gwynedd’s network of Welsh Coastal Pathways will attract more visitors to our beautiful coastline and will provide a valuable boost to the local economy.”
The coastal path project has invested nearly £700,000 in the Gwynedd path network over the last year, through a number of projects across the county and the scheme will continue for the next year.
The completion of an 870 mile long Wales Coast Path is a key Welsh Government commitment. The development programme is managed by CCW and funded by the Welsh Government, the European Regional Development Fund (through the Environment for Growth theme of the Convergence Programme) and the 16 local councils and two national parks through which the path passes.
