Community asked for opinions on walking route around Caerphilly Castle

An exhibition explaining plans to build a circular walking route around Caerphilly Castle has opened at Caerphilly Library.

The grassroots community project has been led by Caerphilly Eco Hub, which has been able to seek views from the community thanks to funding from the National Lottery and economic development agency Cwmpas.

The circular walk, or Cylchdaith y Castell as it is being termed, could take the form of an attractive boardwalk around the part of the castle that is currently inaccessible for pedestrians.

This, Caerphilly Eco Hub say, would solve the problem of providing a safer walking route around the castle and one which avoids traffic.

It would also promote active travel for walkers and runners, an accessible route for families with buggies and wheelchair users, and education opportunities for schools.

After displaying plans at Caerphilly Miners Centre and Coffi Vista, the expedition is now open in Caerphilly Library until the end of April.

One of the founders of Caerphilly Eco Hub, Lynn Gazal, has encouraged people to come along and share their ideas.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer previously, she said: “I participated in a visioning day organised by Cwmpas, where representatives from social enterprise groups and enthusiastic locals collaborated to generate ideas.

“Among them, the circular route suggestion stood out. It was an idea which had previously come up in local consultations and public meetings on environmental issues. Its appeal resonated with all attendees. All the feedback so far has been positive.”

Martin Downes is the Cwmpas project manager for the Lottery Fund Community Tourism Project. He is also a representative on Caerphilly Town Council.

He said: “It has been exciting to see this grassroots initiative to explore a simple but transformative idea for Caerphilly town. The circular route boardwalk would be attractive for visitors, but would also make an enormous difference to the local community.

“It would make for a safer experience and if it becomes a reality, it will enhance what the town offers for everyone.”

Conversations with relevant authorities, such as Cadw, are planned for the future.