a person's legs and walking boots stood on a stone
Credit: (Photo by Envato Elements licence)

Residents are being asked for their views to help improve public rights of way routes in Torfaen.

Public rights of way are vital to enable everyone access to safe routes for walking, cycling and horse riding, which complements roadside pathways, that generally provide pedestrian access only.

In Torfaen, there are 230 miles (370km) of public footpaths, bridleways and restricted byways which are managed by the council.

There are now plans to update the council’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan develop an access strategy to improve the connection between routes and promote opportunities for active travel.

You can contribute to the new plan by telling the council what you think about our public rights of way, whether you access them by foot, in a wheelchair or mobility scooter, or by bicycle or horse.

You can complete the survey online or by visiting of the following drop in sessions:  

  • Tuesday 17 September at Blaenavon World Heritage Centre, 1pm-3pm. Thursday 19 September at Pontypool Leisure Centre, 10am-noon.
  • Friday 20 September at Llanyrafon Methodist Church, Cwmbran, 4pm-6pm.

Councillor Mandy Owen, executive member for the Environment, said: “As a community, our public pathways are essential for connecting us to each other and to the beautiful outdoor spaces we cherish.

“One of council’s wellbeing objectives is to our wellbeing objectives is to make Torfaen more sustainable by connecting people and communities socially and physically. We’re also committed to protecting our environment and helping people to live healthier lifestyles to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.”

The survey will close on Saturday 5 October 2024.