Stepping out on footpath linking Welsh coast jewels

A new footpath which opens up the stunning natural beauty of the west coast of Wales was officially opened by Environment, Sustainability and Housing Minister Jane Davidson today.

Ms Davidson said: “I am delighted to open this latest outstanding new addition to our rights of way network, the Ceredigion Coast Path. I have been looking forward to this day for some time - this is a very exciting new project which has superbly linked up many of the jewels along the Cardigan Bay coastline.”

As Minister with responsibility for coastal access she said the official opening, at the Urdd Camp at Llangranog, represented a key step towards the Assembly Government’s One Wales commitment to create a footpath right around the coastline by 2012 – from Flintshire in the north east to Monthmouthshire in the south east.

The path has been developed by Ceredigion County Council with financial support from the European Union under the Objective 1 Programme.

“I would like to congratulate all those involved for this achievement. I especially want to thank the many landowners and volunteers whose help over the past five years has made the completion of this project possible, including all of the volunteers who have been involved, including members of the Ramblers’ Association,” added Ms Davidson.

“This is one of many sections of coastal path that will be opened over the next few years. Our Coastal Access Improvement Programme will also provide circular routes that allow people to head inland and link to towns and villages – this will help us to maximise the benefits that access to the coast can bring to our rural economies.