A new entrance feature to the Sarn Helen trail and connections to the visitor and parking facilities at the DOVE workshops have been completed.
Sarn Helen is a historic link with our Roman past and a physical link between Aberconwy in North Wales and Carmarthen in South Wales.
The 160 mile long Roman Road no longer exists in many parts of Wales having been converted into modern highways in some areas and seriously degraded in others.
However, the section from Neath to Banwen and on through the Brecon Beacons National Park to the Roman Fort at Brecon still survives.
The Gateway feature is themed on a Roman motif with a Roman-styled mosaic that interprets the Sarn Helen Trail through Wales, surrounded by an arched stone wall enclosure providing shelter with seating and planting.
The site was in a poor condition and under-utilised and when the opportunity arose to undertake environmental improvements under the Welsh Government’s Environment Programme, Neath Port Talbot Council secured funding to create a gateway to this important historic heritage trail.
The project has enhanced the status of Sarn Helen, upgraded the appearance of the area and improved the interpretation of the historic trail. The scheme has also improved access and linkages to the DOVE Workshop café and car park.
Neath Port Talbot Council worked closely with Welsh Government, Walters Mining, Onllwyn Community Council, and DOVE Workshops to deliver a scheme that would benefit local residents and visitors.
The work was carried out by local contractor Afan Landscapes.
The Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Ali Thomas OBE said: “The Sarn Helen Trail is an important link with our past and the Council felt it was vital not just to preserve it but also to improve it.
“The site was in a poor condition but now it is a more attractive area which invites visitors to find out more about our past and spend a little time walking the trail.
“Neath Port Talbot has an amazing history and we should do what we can to preserve it for future generations.”
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