Groups’ path pledge

MORE than seven local and national organisations have agreed to work together with residents of the Garw Valley to ensure that a popular community route remains open and suitable for use.

The pledge was made by Bridgend County Borough Council, Natural Resources Wales, Sustrans, Keep Wales Tidy, Network Rail, Groundwork Wales and the Garw Valley Heritage Railway Society at a meeting chaired by Pontycymer ward member, Councillor Rod Shaw.

Originally opened to form a vital cycling and walking link between Blaengarw in the Garw Valley and Bryngarw near Brynmenyn, the route was previously maintained by Groundwork Bridgend.

When that organisation went into administration in 2014, the lease passed to the Garw Valley Heritage Railway Society which began seeking potential partners to help look after and maintain the route.

A site visit is now being organised so that necessary work can be identified, fact sheets drawn up and a plan developed for managing undergrowth and wildlife.

Councillor Richard Young, cabinet member for communities, said: “Community routes play an important role not only in establishing social links, but in offering people alternative ways to get around, keep fit and lead an active lifestyle.

“The community’s involvement will be an important part of safeguarding this route’s long-term future, and I am looking forward to seeing how this partnership develops further.”

Councillor Rod Shaw, elected representative for the Pontycymer ward, added: “Gathering these organisations together and securing their agreement to work in partnership with the community is excellent news for residents of the Garw Valley, and I would like to thank everyone for their efforts.”