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An ‘active travel route’ could be created in Risca, with the aim of getting more people walking and cycling through the area.

Caerphilly County Borough Council, which is behind the plans, has suggested two possible routes.

Both routes will roughly be 1.25km in length, the main difference being one would go through Tredegar Park, and the other would go around it.

As the consultation period draws to a close, Risca West councillor Bob Owen said: “It would be good to get people in the frame of mind that they can walk or cycle for short journeys, instead of driving.

“I have heard the reaction of my residents, and understandably, like most things, there’s often a resistance to change.

“However, my main concern over this proposed project is costs. There is a lot of old infrastructure here that will need replacing or improving, which I suspect will come at great cost.

“It must be worth the money.”

The council has said the project is in line with Welsh Government policy, encouraging walking and cycling as the preferred travel mode for short journeys.

Asked about the routes, Cllr Owen said: “I think if you put me on the spot I’d opt for the route that goes around the park. The park is a great area for kids to run free and I’m not sure a cycle lane through it would be a good idea.

“I also think it would cost more, which at this time of financial constraint, is a consideration.”

The details of the proposed routes, according to the council, are: “The route begins on Dan y Graig Road outside of Risca Primary School to the west, crossing the B4591, heading around or through Tredegar Park to travel down Park Road.

“The route follows the existing path adjacent to the train station car park linking with Ty Isaf Infant School and connects B4591 Newport Road by widening the existing path through the rugby club to a three-metre wide shared facility.”

Whilst generally being in support of the project, if the cost is “reasonable”, Cllr Owen expressed his frustration at the decision making process within the council.

“The consultation period was advertised quite late and not for long enough, as is the way with the council.

“The reason why I’m so keen to find out the costs is because if it is approved then that expense falls on us as councillors, not the officers who suggested it. We have the final say but no overall control.”

Caerphilly County Borough Council has been asked how much the project is expected to cost.