After pavement widening farce, what next for cycle and walking improvements?
The council has launched a 12-week consultation to help shape future active travel routes in key towns across the county, including Welshpool. The aim is to make everyday journeys by foot, bike, or wheelchair safer and easier.
It follows the last update to the county’s Active Travel Network Map in 2020, which identified over 500 potential new or improved walking and cycling routes across 11 towns, including Welshpool.
But previous projects haven't gone down well in the town. A huge amount of money was spent on widening the pavements down Severn Street last year (pictured), and the town's only 'bike lane' has become a constant subject of jokes at the roundabout near to the Medical Centre.
But looking ahead, suggestions could be as simple as new bike racks in the town centre, safer crossings near schools, more improved pavements for pushchairs, or dedicated cycle lanes to help people feel more confident riding on roads.
Councillor Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, said: “The Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013 aims to make Wales a walking and cycling nation. With your help, during this 12-week engagement exercise, we plan to refresh the current Active Travel Network Map already developed by communities in 2016 and 2020.
“We want your feedback. Can you help us update the routes that were chosen previously? Has anything changed? Are there any new barriers or opportunities? We want to hear the views of people who live, work or visit our towns – including community groups, schools, families and individuals.”
Following analysis of the feedback, a new draft of the updated map will be published for consultation next year.
Residents can view the current maps and submit their suggestions online by visiting: Have Your Say: Help Shape the Active Travel Network in Powys.
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