Latest news

Communities across the nation – including people from Monmouthshire – voted in force for Sustrans’ Connect2 to win the TV vote to bring £50million from the Big Lottery Fund to create 79 walking and cycling networks for everyday journeys across the UK.

The scheme to connect communities on both sides of the Wye and Monnow at Monmouth is a step closer as sustainable transport charity Sustrans and its Connect2 partners at Monmouthshire County Council have signed the paperwork that will guide the development for the coming years.

The agreement, a Memorandum of Understanding, confirms partners’ continued commitment to the project and pledges £250,000 from Sustrans’ Connect2 lottery award to create a network of paths across the river providing an enjoyable and accessible route for people pushing prams, wheelchair users, walkers and cyclists.

The first phase of works is the restoration and resurfacing of a famous landmark bridge across the Wye. The disused Duke of Beaufort Bridge has become the symbol of the project locally, which was originally campaigned for by committed community groups. Painting and decking for the bridge will begin in 2010. 

This walking and cycling scheme will also link into and extend the Wye Valley Walk and the Peregrine Path as well as providing local access to the Showground, the bus station and local green spaces such as Vauxhall fields and Drybridge Park; laying the foundations for thousands more journeys by foot and bike in the local area and beyond.

Published on 05th May 2009