Walking and cycling routes in Blaenavon are set to receive a £150,000 boost if a bid for transport improvements is successful.
Torfaen Council, through the South East Wales Transport Alliance (SEWTA), is applying for funds from the Welsh Assembly to better link the tourist attractions and the town centre.
If the bid is successful there will be better signage and infrastructure so that walkers and cyclists can more easily access attractions including Big Pit, the Ironworks and World Heritage Centre.
Councillor John Cunningham, Executive Member for Operational Services, said: “It would be fantastic to receive the funding as it will provide a welcome boost for residents, cyclists, walkers and tourists in the Blaenavon area.
“Any money would encourage healthy living and better link the tourist attractions in the town.”
Plans for Blaenavon were included in SEWTA’s five-year plan and an announcement on the funding is expected shortly.
Aside from this bid through SEWTA, the Council is already looking at making transport improvements in north Torfaen.
Welsh Assembly funding to the tune of £200,000 is funding a study looking at ways of improving the infrastructure.
AECOM (formerly Faber Maunsell), on behalf of the Council, is carrying out the study.
Its main objective is to assess the full range of potential transport improvements between Pontypool and Talywain.
The study will look at ways to increase opportunities to access employment within the borough and beyond and help the growth of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site as a tourist destination.
