Plans to create an active travel route stretching from Usk to Pontypool have been backed by the area’s MS Natasha Asghar.
The South Wales East politician visited part of the proposed route last week with some of the people carrying the project forward including county councillor Tony Kear and Matt Hamar.
Not only would the project provide a safe walking and cycling route, but it would also connect people to schools and businesses.
The project, which has been in the making for around a decade, is currently being looked at by Transport for Wales.
However, there is still some challenges which need to be ironed out including issues over landownership.
Natasha raised the project in the Welsh Parliament, calling on the Welsh Government to bring forward a statement outlining how Ministers can help in turning the active travel route into a reality.
Business Minister Jane Hutt MS responded positively, saying: “I am very pleased to report that the Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales is taking this up.
“He is recognising it, and he is going to take this forward. As you say, I think the important thing is it’s about this connection with active travel routes that actually make sense for people’s lives and to access our public services.”
Natasha Asghar MS said:
“Active travel, when implemented in the right location and with the public on board, works extremely well – and this project is an example of that.
“With no cycle provisions currently in place in Usk, this would be a real boost for leisure in the area and connect the town with key sites stretching all the way to Pontypool.
“Residents in the area are onboard, as are many organisations, so it’s imperative we can get this project off the ground and I will be doing all I can to ensure that happens.”
Welsh Conservative Llanbadoc and Usk county councillor Tony Kear added:
“Since becoming involved in this project, I have seen how the leadership of Matthew and the tremendous work of community volunteers alongside Monmouthshire County Council officers has seen a detailed and well though project put forward and it’s also fantastic that after seemingly years of frustration, this wonderful Active Travel route has gained traction and political support.
“It's fabulous news too that the WelTAG Lite project will now have greater ownership and will be undertaken by the Transport for Wales Active Travel hub in consultation with the active travel teams from Torfaen County Borough Council, Monmouthshire County Council, the Welsh Government, and Sustrans and the Welsh Local Government Association as part of the project stakeholder group. "
Matthew Hamar, who is leading the Usk Trail Access Group, said:
“The Usk and surrounding community have been striving to create this route to connect people and businesses together for over 10 years.
“The route will link communities in Torfaen and Monmouthshire and allow for improved leisure, commuting and wellbeing for all ages and abilities.
“I hope the support of both Natasha and our local MP Catherine Fookes will help to see this project delivered soon for future generations.”
