A County Borough wide consultation calling on the public to give views on walking and cycling routes in Neath Port Talbot has begun.
Following approval of the Council’s Existing Route Map in 2016, Neath Port Talbot Council will be consulting on a small number of revisions to the map and also on the new emerging Integrated Network Map.
The consultation is in relation to the Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013 that requires councils to map, plan and continue to improve active travel networks that are used by pedestrians and cyclists. The purpose of the Act is to ensure that local residents have suitable walking and cycling routes when making a journey to lessen the reliance on motorised transport. The Act requires the Council to publish both the Existing Route and the Integrated Network maps.
The Council’s Existing Route Map outlines existing route infrastructure that meets the criteria within the Active Travel regulations as set out by Welsh Government. The routes have been identified as being suitable for everyday journeys to destinations, such as schools and places of work. Active Travel routes do not include journeys that are made solely for recreational purposes.
The Integrated Network Map presents the Council’s aspirations for the next 15 years, identifying improvements to existing routes or new routes that could be developed and added to the active travel network.
The 12 week consultation period began at midday on Monday 26th June and will end at midday on Monday 18th September 2017.
Councillor Annette Wingrave, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Sustainable Development of Neath Port Talbot Council said, “We encourage as many local residents as possible to respond to the consultation. Your input is valued and will be used to help inform us on the future developments of walking and cycling routes throughout the County Borough.”
To comment on the walking and cycling routes that need improving in Neath Port Talbot visit here. Hard copies of the maps and all relevant documents will be made available for the 12 week period at Neath Civic Centre, Port Talbot Civic Centre and Pontardawe Library.
Consultation events will also be held over the summer where you will be able to view the proposals and discuss them directly with officers. The dates and venues of these events will shortly be announced on the above webpage.
If you require further information in regard to any aspect of the Active Travel maps, you can contact the Council direct either by telephone: [01639] 686845 or e-mail: greener@npt.gov.uk
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