THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME
Plans unveiled for waterfront development in Caernarfon
MORE cash is set to be pumped into improving Caernarfon’s waterfront.
Gwynedd Council plans to splash £400,000 on plans to open-up the quayside.
The authority says the scheme will “improve links” between the town centre and the waterside for pedestrians and cyclists.
And that’s on top of two other major works - one to build a brand new railway station and the other to redevelop an area known as the ”island site” - which will take place just yards away.
The council is now calling on people to come forward to air their views on its most recent plans.
Councillor Dafydd Meurig, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member who leads on transport matters, said: “By working with our partners, we are eager to ensure that Caernarfon builds on its reputation as a vibrant location for the local community and visitors to the area.
“We are pleased to have secured £400,000 of investment to improve the connections between the town centre and the waterfront area of Caernarfon.
“We would encourage anyone who is interested to come along to the public sessions and take the opportunity to see the initial plans that are being developed.”
Two drop-in sessions have been arranged in Caernarfon for people to have their say on the scheme.
They will be held at the Presbyterian Church at the Maes on October 5 and, from 10am to 8pm where new sketches about the plans will be unveiled to residents and businesses.
The news further investment follows an announcement in August that a major project to build a £2.2m train station in Caernarfon for the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway (F&WHR) is set to get under way this winter.
Work will begin in November. The new station will form a key part of the £16m Waterfront Development Project, led by Gwynedd County Council, to give a major boost to parts of Caernarfon.
And this week, railway campaigners the Traws Link Cymru group revealed they want to see a main line reinstated from Bangor to Caernarfon and on to Afon Wen, between Pwllheli and Porthmadog.
They say reopening the route would bring a “huge financial boost” and more visitors to Caernarfon and the surrounding area.
Councillor Mandy Williams-Davies, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Community matters said: “Caernarfon’s waterfront area has been identified as a location that has potential to contribute towards regenerating the town and the wider local economy. Our aim through this specific scheme is to introduce practical improvements that will strengthen the connection between this area and the centre of the town.”
The improvements have been funded via the Welsh Government’s Vibrant and Viable Places fund.