New cycling strategy for Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire’s ambition to become the ‘cycling hub of Wales’ has stepped up a gear following the approval of a new cycling strategy for the county.

The strategy, approved by executive board this week, sets out the direction to support the council’s aspirations to be a national lead in the provision of cycling infrastructure events and development.

It sets out 11 key objectives for the county that focus around issues of health, education, collaboration, employment and economic activity, under three key themes.

This includes infrastructure, including flagship projects such as the Towy Valley Path, Carmarthen Velodrome redevelopment and the Pembrey Closed Cycle Circuit facility.

Another area of focus is to host and attract major events such as the Tour of Britain, which has recently been announced, with ambitions to attract other major international cycling races such as the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France.

For everyday travel and cycling, the council will also focus on pathways and initiatives to promote and develop cycling as an everyday activity in Carmarthenshire.

This would support the council’s responsibilities under the Active Travel Act, the Welsh Cycling Strategy and Well-Being of Future Generations Act.

Cllr Emlyn Dole, Leader of the council, said: “We announced three years ago our intention to make Carmarthenshire the cycling hub of Wales. It was great to be at the velodrome in Carmarthen last week to hear the announcement that the Tour of Britain will start here in Carmarthenshire as part of the first stage. The race director was amazed at the resources was have.”

Cllr Peter Hughes Griffiths, executive board member for culture, sport and tourism, added: “We are attracting people into the county – we are leading the way at the moment and are being highly praised for our efforts.”

• Watch the executive board discussion and read the report at www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales