Paths to Prosperity: Powys County Council and Ramblers Cymru collaborate on community trail development project

7 February 2024

Powys County Council and Ramblers Cymru are thrilled to introduce "Paths to Prosperity," a collaborative effort to boost community involvement in access, create economic opportunities, and improve visitor experience by developing trails in Welshpool, Llangors, and Coelbren.

Angela Charlton, Director of Ramblers Cymru said: "We are delighted to be working with Powys County Council to improve paths and access. We will be running a series of 'drop in' community engagement events in February, to allow local people to share their favourite walks and information about places which could benefit from route improvements.

"So, if you have a passion for trail development, guiding walks, or want to learn new skills to support walking events, come along for a cuppa and let us know."

Drop in consultation events:

• Llangors - Llangors Community Centre - Sat 10 February, 10am - 3pm.
• Welshpool - 1st Clive's Own Welshpool Scout Headquarters & Community Centre - Sunday 11 February, 10am- 3pm.
• Coelbren - Coelbren Miners' Welfare & Memorial Hall, Sat 17 8 February, 10am - 3pm.

If you are unable to attend but would like to get involved, please fill in our community paths questionnaire https://www.ramblers.org.uk/powyssurvey or email RamblersCymru@ramblers.org.uk

Building on the success of previous work, this project will help local volunteers develop practical skills in navigation, trail development and path maintenance, as well as improving signage and infrastructure to ensure easy access for all.

A series of user-friendly route guides for the new and improved trails will be created and made available online for local communities to enjoy, and to help attract more visitors to the areas.

Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys said: "Powys in blessed to have some of the most stunning outdoor spaces for both residents and tourists to enjoy and the Paths to Prosperity project is the perfect way to get everyone out and making the most of what Powys has to offer.

"By developing a volunteer network to increase local ownership of path networks, promoting community pride and proactive trail maintenance, the project will help improve the experience of the thousands of people who love spending time outdoors and exploring the trails in Powys.

"Anyone with a passion for the outdoors and walking will want to join in shaping a prosperous future through community engagement, vibrant trails, and sustainable tourism!"

The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supported by Powys County Council.