WIREDGOV

The Conwy Morfa Route, which has benefited from £925,000 Welsh Government investment, will transform the walking and cycling experience along the north Wales coast and provide an essential bridge over the north Wales railway.

Taking cyclists and pedestrians away from the busy A55, the new route will allow spectacular views of the Irish Sea and provide local residents and tourists with the opportunity to enjoy healthy journeys between Conwy town and Penmaenmawr.

The new route, which has been delivered by Sustrans, Conwy Council, Taith and the Welsh Government, is the final stage of a £5millon walking and cycling route between Llanfairfechan and Conwy.

Speaking before the launch, Carl Sargeant said:

“ We want to make walking and cycling the most natural and normal way of getting about in Wales.”

“ This sustainable mode of transport plays an important role in encouraging people to improve their health, enjoy the natural environment and promote a greener way of life.

“ This shared-use route is an excellent example of partnership working in action and will improve access to employment, education and shops around Conwy and Penmaenmawr.”

The Minister will officially open the route with Councillor Michael Priestley and Sustrans Cymru Director, Lee Waters.  

Commenting about the new Conwy Morfa route that completes the National Cycle Network Route 5 between Chester and Holyhead, Sustrans Cymru Director, Lee Waters, said,

"Before the project locals had to endure walking and cycling right alongside the busy A55, this new route will go through the beautiful Conwy Morfa dunes, and we expect to see a huge increase in the number people getting about by foot and by bike as a result.”

“This investment will provide an important boost for tourism by transforming this section of the National Cycle Network along the north Wales coast, whilst also providing a safe route for local journeys between Conwy, Penmaenmawr and Llanfairfechan.”

Cabinet Member for Conwy County Borough Council and Chair of Taith, Cllr Mike Priestley, said:

“Today we celebrate a fine example of collaboration, to complete this key section of the route and helping ensure safer cycling for both leisure and commuting.

“ The project has already had an economic impact on North Wales by providing local and regional employment to our contractors and fabricators who built and installed the bridge and access track.  Our local communities are set to benefit as more people recognise the potential of cycling holidays; we already have the facilities to welcome new visitors and we will play our part to encourage such groups through our Destination Management.

“ A huge effort goes into the development, design and delivery of facilities like this and I’d like to thank the many people and groups involved.”

To celebrate the official opening pupils from Ysgol Porth y Felin will also be taking part in a bike ride along the new route.