Storm damage along walking path repaired

A section of a popular walking path that was hit by flooding during Storm Dennis has been repaired.

The path, which runs along the Nant yr Aber river, between the Asda supermarket in Caerphilly Town and Celyn Avenue, was damaged in February.

Works to fix the pathway were completed by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) on July 14 after discussions with local councillors.

James Galsworthy, NRW’s integrated engineering team leader, said: “Storm Dennis caused absolute devastation for many communities and businesses, and we’ve been working hard since the February storms to inspect our defences and repair any damage left in their wake.

“The footpath between Celyn Avenue and Asda Caerphilly is linked to our flood defence scheme for the area and during Storm Dennis, sections of the path were completely washed away.

“We’ve since repaired the damage and resurfaced the path so it can once again be used by local residents.”

The work was welcomed by Morgan Jones ward councillor Jamie Pritchard, who said: “The footpath was badly impacted by the storms and the result of Covid-19 meant works have been even harder to secure.

“The footpath has been improved beyond what it was before the storm, so we thank local residents and NRW for their efforts to help ensure this progress.”

Cllr Shayne Cook, who also represents the Morgan Jones ward, said: “We have been campaigning with residents for this popular walkway to be improved since the floods almost destroyed the riverbank.

“Following almost daily discussions over many months with NRW, now we’re seeing the benefits of the work.”

Resident Hannah Wilcox said: “It’s great to see the path now finished. As a regular user of the path before the floods I look forward to being able to walk here with my son again.”