Active Travel Update
Our local network of cycle trails continues to grow and see improvements and we were very pleased to see the completion of a new cycle way from Waunfawr to Comins Coch. Work took place on this shared use section over the winter that is now open offers walkers and cyclists a traffic-free route between the two locations. The next phase is planned to connect the new Comins Coch section with the trail already in place linking Penrhyncoch to Bow Street and to allow safe and easy walking and cycling between the University Campus locations.
Our Aberystwyth store manager Jim, who has spent many years commuting via bike along the busy and dangerous A487 road section was extremely pleased to see arrival of the new route, finally giving him a safer and more enjoyable journey to and from work.
Jim makes the journey each day on his Trek FX and has been pleased see others have been making good use of the new route too.
“The new cycle path from Comins Coch to Waunfawr provides a much-needed safer route into Aberystwyth. A great interconnecting link between Comins Coch and Waunfawr, it allows school children and parents to walk or cycle to school, gives dog walkers and runners additional routes, and importantly bypasses the extremely dangerous A487 blind bend for any cyclist travelling from the North into Aberystwyth. This section of road tragically claimed the life of cyclist and Ceredigion councillor Paul James in April 2019.
Smooth tarmac, with great views, it's a welcome addition to the local active travel infrastructure, benefiting the health and well-being of these local communities. “
Jim Haddon – Summit Cycles manager
One of the biggest barriers preventing people from choosing active travel options is access to safe, traffic free or traffic calmed routes. With the introduction of the 20mph speed reductions here in Wales, we have heard many positive reports.
Some very positive new data has been released that indicates the change is already having an impact on road safety, reducing accidents and saving lives. https://nation.cymru/news/new-data-confirms-positive-impact-of-20mph-speed-limit/
While the speed reduction is a really positive change, more dedicated traffic-free routes are what is needed to offer cyclists and walkers a realistic, practical and safe way to choose active travel as a real alternative to motor vehicle use. We applaud the efforts of those on our local council who have worked hard to deliver the expansion and improvements to our active travel network. That’s why we are always keen to celebrate the expansion of our cycle networks and the efforts made to promote active travel.
Lately, we have had an opportunity to support the great work of Sustrans in encouraging active travel locally. Working with our local Sustrans Active travel coordinator Alice Baynton, members of our team have been visiting local schools to help build confidence and offer some practical advice on bike care and safety to teachers who are working hard to support and encourage young people to choose active travel for their journeys.
We were extremely encouraged to hear that one of the schools we visited, Plascrug have just received their Sustrans Active Travel Gold Award in recognition of their great efforts of the staff in promoting and supporting active travel among their pupils and to the efforts of so many pupils who choose active travel for their journeys to and from school each day . Llongyfarchiadau mawr Plascrug!
If you are looking to enjoy some safe and easy cycling this summer, we’ve put together a guide to our favourite local easy cycle rides (mostly traffic free) – VISIT PAGE>>
