A VISION for improving footpaths and other routes across Ceredigion over the next decade has been adopted.
Ceredigion County Council’s cabinet signed off the revised Rights of Way Improvement Plan for 2019-29 at its meeting on Tuesday, June 4.
“Providing access to our coast and countryside is an essential part of the rural tourism product in Ceredigion and the network of paths is a key economic asset,” said Cllr Rhodri Evans, cabinet member for economy and regeneration.
He added that there had been consultation with the public and stakeholders during the development of the plan which will focus on maintaining footpaths and improving access.
In 2015 more than 103,000 people were recorded using the Coast Path between Aberporth and Tresaith, the plan states, with approximately 42 per cent spending money in the local area.
The team looking after public rights of way was restructured in 2015 and now has seven staff including a community access officer, there area rangers and a Wales Coast Path officer.
Budget issues related to managing footpaths are identified – with a shortfall between estimated maintenance costs of £378 per km and a budget of £52 per km – and a need for additional, external funding, is required, the plan adds.
Ceredigion County Council has a long history of working with volunteers to maintain footpaths with three main groups in Aberystwyth, Lampeter and Cardigan.
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