The Wales Coastal Access Improvement Programme (WCAIP) is a scheme to improve access to the coast for local communities and visitors by creating a high quality walking route around the coast of Wales by 2012. The path will run the entire length of the Welsh coast from the outskirts of Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south; a distance of approximately 800 miles (1300kms). Development of the Path is being funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, the European Regional Development Fund and the local authorities through which it passes.
Since the programme started in 2007 Conwy has carried out projects along its stretch of coast to improve paths and link together what will by 2012 be a continuous route. Projects have included various path improvements around the Great Orme including the addition of dropped kerbs to the Marine Drive to make easier passing places for mobility vehicles. Other works have included the replacement of old unsuitable path furniture with new, high quality gates. A number of rest spots have also been created or improved.
The Conwy Coastal Access Steering Group has played an important role in advising and assisting Conwy's Coastal Access Project Officers carry out improvements to the path by offering ideas and guidance to the project. The Steering Group is made up of a team of enthusiastic volunteers who have interest in and knowledge of many types of access including walking, cycling and equestrian interests; access for the less able, and providing information. Please see below for notes from steering group meetings.
Wales Coast Path Opens
The first section of Wales Coast Path to be opened runs along the North Wales coastline from Prestatyn to Llandudno's West Shore. It includes sites such as the Little Tern colony at Gronant dunes, and both the Little Orme and the Great Orme, as well as passing through several local communities on the way.
The Environment Minister for Wales, Jane Davidson, will officially open this section of the Coast Path on 1st July 2010.
For further information about the project in Conwy please contact:
Jenny Towill, Coastal Access Project Officer
John Mitchell, Coastal Access Project Officer
Phone: 01492 575543 / 575541
Fax: 01248 681881
Email: cg.cs@conwy.gov.uk
