Date set for reopening of Cwmcarn Forest Drive

A date has been set for the much-awaited reopening of Cwmcarn Forest Drive – seven years after it was forced to close due to a tree disease.

The venue will reopen on June 21, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and Caerphilly County Borough Council have confirmed.

It had originally been set to reopen for a trial period at the end of March before officially reopening during the Easter holidays. However, this was postponed due to coronavirus restrictions.

In recent months, new play areas, a story-telling area, learning facilities, trails, seating areas and picnic spots have been set up at the site ready for its reopening.

Geminie Drinkwater, Project Manager at NRW, said: “Cwmcarn Forest is such an important asset to the local community and visitors alike, providing much needed access to green space.

“Over the last year the Covid-19 pandemic has brought into focus just how important this is to our physical and mental wellbeing.

“What we’ve created here is something that will be cherished by many – young and old – for years to come.”

She added: “It compliments an already impressive array of activities on offer at the site and will provide a welcome boost to the local economy.”

Last month, the council entered into a partnership with NRW, with the council taking on the operational management of the visitor attraction for a trial period of two years.

The council is already responsible for managing other attractions at the site, including the visitor centre, café, lodges and glamping pods.

Admission prices of £8 per car, £11 for minibuses and £25 for coaches – which includes parking fees on council operated car parks at Cwmcarn – have been set.

Councillor Philippa Marsden, leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “To see the progress made over the last two years has been a pleasure.”

“The impressive green space boasts a range of brand new additions, including the luxury glamping pods and a number of activity areas.

“There truly is something for everyone to enjoy and we hope that residents and visitors make the most of all that Cwmcarn has to offer in the coming months.”

An official ceremony to mark the drive’s reopening will be held at some point in the future, after coronavirus restrictions are eased further, NRW has revealed.