Latest news with #Sustrans
Daily Record
14-07-2025
- Daily Record
People in Dumfries and Galloway encouraged to get on their bikes during summer holidays
Free sessions for beginners and families are being offered across the region thanks to Sustrans' IBike Dumfries and Galloway project. People are being encouraged to get on their bikes during the summer holidays. Free sessions for beginners and families are being offered across the region thanks to Sustrans' IBike Dumfries and Galloway project. The charity aims to help people make more journeys by foot, bike or public transport so people can choose healthier, cleaner and cheaper journeys. The free sessions are open to anyone who would like to learn or boost their cycling abilities and confidence, with the Sustrans team helping people gain confidence on the road so they can make local journeys by bike. Project manager, Annick Laroque, said: 'Every year we try to hold a cycling event in the holidays to give families a chance to attend together as well as to offer activities outside of school term times. 'It's especially useful for those that haven't managed to learn to ride a bike to ensure they don't miss out on all the fun and freedom it can bring, as well as opportunities for active journeys'.' IBike Dumfries and Galloway, which is being funded by SWestrans, has already held sessions in both the Dock Park in Dumfries and in Kirkcudbright, with people of all ages learning how to ride a bike and family groups being given the skills and confidence to cycle safely. One mum, Jayde, who took part, said: 'This has been amazing, what a great opportunity for my son. I'll be telling all my friends.' Topics covered include junction work, road placement and general cycling confidence. Future sessions will be held in Annan on Tuesday, July 22 and Dock Park in Dumfries on Friday, August 15. Sessions are free and open to all ages but booking is essential. For further information or to book a free spot, call 07769931802 or email
Wales Online
08-07-2025
- Wales Online
Upgrade for crumbling coastal path with stunning views of North Wales icons
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A popular coastal path with some of the most dramatic views in Wales is to be upgraded after falling into disrepair. Each year, tens of thousands of people walk or cycle the route along the banks of the Conwy Estuary. In recent years the path has begun to degrade and cycling charity Sustrans worries this is starting to affect its usage. After heavy rain, it becomes almost impassable as huge puddles form on its uneven surface. Resurfacing work is now planned for the path at Deganwy. This section forms part of the Conwy Estuary Trail, a 3km walking and cycling route that links Deganwy and Llandudno's West Shore. It is part of the Wales Coastal Path. Each year an estimated 429,871 walking and cycling trips are made on the trail, which gives views towards Conwy Castle and the town's quay and marina, backed by the mountains of Eryri. An economic analysis in 2019 estimated that, were the 3km trail to fully upgraded, it could attract almost 600,000 users each year – almost as many as those who visit Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Sustrans will soon be organising improvements on the Deganwy section to enhance the path's 'quality and usability'. The resurfacing work is being funded by the Welsh Government. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone As the Conwy Estuary is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Sustrans has liaised with Natural Resources Wales to ensure marine habitats are not disturbed during the work. An on-site ecologist will be employed for pre-nesting survey checks. (Image: Anthony Jones/Sustrans) Anthony Jones, network development manager at Sustrans, said: 'It's very clear to us just how important this route is to the people who live in this part of Conwy, as well as its role in tourism here. 'This is a very popular route by an important ecological site here in North Wales, so we need to ensure we're doing everything we can to ensure the route's quality and accessibility for everyone.' The works are due to be completed by the end of 2025. The aim is then to 'celebrate' the resurfaced route with led walks and rides the following spring. As the Conwy Estuary Trail incorporates Route 5 on the National Cycle Network, Sustrans said it is one of the most popular cycling routes in North Wales. Route 5 runs from Holyhead to Reading, spanning a massive 367 miles. 'This is an especially popular and well-used section of National Cycle Network,' added the charity. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Find family activities near you
North Wales Live
08-07-2025
- North Wales Live
Upgrade for crumbling coastal path with stunning views of North Wales icons
A popular coastal path with some of the most dramatic views in Wales is to be upgraded after falling into disrepair. Each year, tens of thousands of people walk or cycle the route along the banks of the Conwy Estuary. In recent years the path has begun to degrade and cycling charity Sustrans worries this is starting to affect its usage. After heavy rain, it becomes almost impassable as huge puddles form on its uneven surface. Resurfacing work is now planned for the path at Deganwy. This section forms part of the Conwy Estuary Trail, a 3km walking and cycling route that links Deganwy and Llandudno's West Shore. It is part of the Wales Coastal Path. Each year an estimated 429,871 walking and cycling trips are made on the trail, which gives views towards Conwy Castle and the town's quay and marina, backed by the mountains of Eryri. An economic analysis in 2019 estimated that, were the 3km trail to fully upgraded, it could attract almost 600,000 users each year – almost as many as those who visit Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Sustrans will soon be organising improvements on the Deganwy section to enhance the path's 'quality and usability'. The resurfacing work is being funded by the Welsh Government. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone As the Conwy Estuary is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Sustrans has liaised with Natural Resources Wales to ensure marine habitats are not disturbed during the work. An on-site ecologist will be employed for pre-nesting survey checks. Anthony Jones, network development manager at Sustrans, said: 'It's very clear to us just how important this route is to the people who live in this part of Conwy, as well as its role in tourism here. 'This is a very popular route by an important ecological site here in North Wales, so we need to ensure we're doing everything we can to ensure the route's quality and accessibility for everyone.' The works are due to be completed by the end of 2025. The aim is then to 'celebrate' the resurfaced route with led walks and rides the following spring. As the Conwy Estuary Trail incorporates Route 5 on the National Cycle Network, Sustrans said it is one of the most popular cycling routes in North Wales. Route 5 runs from Holyhead to Reading, spanning a massive 367 miles. 'This is an especially popular and well-used section of National Cycle Network,' added the charity. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
Edinburgh Reporter
08-07-2025
- General
- Edinburgh Reporter
Sustrans call for legislation change for zebra crossings on side streets
A Sustrans report 'Transforming Mobility' published on Tuesday will call for changes to transport so that disabled people are not 'further excluded in society'. The report says that around half of disabled people in the UK think government could do better. One of the proposals in the report is to legalise zebra crossings on side streets. This was called for in Edinburgh previously by Cllr Neil Ross. By law, all zebra crossings in the UK must currently include belisha beacons and zig-zag approach markings. Side road zebras, commonly used across Europe, do not include beacons or zig-zag markings. This ensures they can be used at a side road junction, are quick to install and much cheaper. A two-year trial of side road zebras in Manchester found that drivers give way 65% more times than when the road markings are not present. The findings in the Sustrans report come from a survey of 1,107 disabled people across the UK, and workshops with disabled people in Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Oxford. The survey found that 72% of disabled people support giving greater priority and investment to low-cost solutions, such as side road zebra crossings, or step-free access when crossing roads. An Edinburgh man with sight loss is featured in the report. Joe who is registered blind speaks about the everyday issues he faces getting around the capital. He said: 'I like walking around independently like a sighted person, but not all the time I can manage it, because, for example, on some pavements, the dropped kerb is not very obvious. 'The other thing I think should be improved is that not all the traffic lights have the beeping sound in Edinburgh […] the beeping sound is useful because it can help me to cross the road in a straight direction. 'I think when the council or the organisations have meetings, they should ask some blind people to join in the meeting to give advice, or do testing by looking for some blind people to do it.' Edinburgh and Glasgow are among local authorities across the UK currently developing plans to transform the way people move around and better connect our transport systems. The evidence from Sustrans' report seeks to support these efforts. Five key ideas Alongside side road zebra crossings, the report highlights four other ways to help improve transport connections for disabled people: Rebalance street space to prioritise through – traffic on some roads while reducing it on others. This can improve speed and reliability for cars and buses, whilst making it safer and more pleasant to walk, wheel and cycle. 65% of disabled people support local councils developing a framework for how streets should be used for different types of transport. to prioritise through traffic on some roads while reducing it on others. This can improve speed and reliability for cars and buses, whilst making it safer and more pleasant to walk, wheel and cycle. 65% of disabled people support local councils developing a framework for how streets should be used for different types of transport. Reduce unnecessary car parking to free up public space and declutter pavements. Only 22% of disabled people oppose reducing on-street visitor parking spaces, excluding disabled parking. to free up public space and declutter pavements. Only 22% of disabled people oppose reducing on-street visitor parking spaces, excluding disabled parking. Develop a network of 'mobility hubs' to seamlessly connect walking, wheeling and cycling with buses, trams and trains. 81% of disabled people support providing a better experience when changing between different types of transport. to seamlessly connect walking, wheeling and cycling with buses, trams and trains. 81% of disabled people support providing a better experience when changing between different types of transport. For the rest of the UK to follow Scotland's lead in setting up paid access panels of disabled people to inform local transport policy and practice. 65% of disabled people support giving funding to local councils to create access panels to inform and shape transport plans and projects. Tim Burns, Head of Research at Sustrans, said: 'The next ten years will see exciting changes in the way we move around our cities, as local authorities respond to the UK's economic, health and environmental challenges with visionary transport plans. 'To be truly transformative, these plans need strong, local leadership to transform communities and to put disabled people at their heart. 'We know that disabled people face greater barriers to getting around and accessing the things they need to live well while also wanting to travel more sustainably. 'Our report highlights tried and tested ideas, increasingly being adopted in the UK. Disabled people want transport to change. When disabled people are represented, the outcomes are better for everyone.' Dr Ruth Cumming, Senior Research Officer at Transport for All, who partnered with Sustrans in developing the report, said: 'We all need the freedom to travel – for work, for school, for shopping, and to be able to make those journeys easily and safely. Disabled people are often blocked from that. 'Including disabled people as experts in transport and urban planning ensures our requirements are built into developments, creating streets, communities and cities that we can all use and enjoy.' To read the full report, visit the Sustrans website. Joe from Edinburgh in the Transforming Mobility report Like this: Like Related
Wales Online
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Welsh town that famous actors call home named one of the most affordable places to live
Welsh town that famous actors call home named one of the most affordable places to live In the shadow of the steelworks lies a town that is full of hidden gems Aberavon Beach is known to be one of the longest beaches in Wales (Image: John Myers ) Ask anyone what springs to mind when they think of Port Talbot, and chances are you'll hear the same answer echo back - the steelworks. Towering chimneys and plumes of steam that have long defined the town's skyline. Yet beyond the shadow of this great steel giant, lies a different side of Port Talbot that many people who are not local to the area, may not even know about. One that is rich with natural beauty, local history and hidden gems waiting to be explored. With that in mind, it shouldn't be shocking that recent research from the online property company Zoopla has revealed Port Talbot as one of the most popular, affordable places to live in Great Britain. The famously industrial town ranked fourth in a list, based on how often three-bedroom homes were viewed online, combined with how affordable those homes are compared to local earnings. Port Talbot sits just behind Neath, Llanelli, and the Scottish town of Glenrothes, proving it's more than just steel drawing attention. One of those reasons is Afan Argoed, also known as Afan Country Park - a haven for walkers and cyclists with its miles of scenic trails, winding through the Valley's ever changing landscape. This place was a childhood favourite of mine that holds memories of long dog walks with my granddad and rare sunny day picnics down Rhyslyn car park. Afan Valley - locally known as Afan Argoed is known for its fantastic walking and cycling trails (Image: Forestry Commission Picture Library/Isobel Cameron ) Article continues below Speaking of Rhyslan car park, this is also the starting point of a fantastic walking trail, that certainly put me in my paces growing up. The route forms a figure of eight, giving walkers the choice to complete the full loop or opt for one half - perfect if you're after a shorter, three-mile stroll. The first section is a treat for fans of Richard Burton, guiding you past landmarks tied to the legendary actor who was born just down the road in Pontrhydyfen. As a kid, reaching the portrait bench was always a bit of a milestone - a quiet clearing where three steel figures stand proud: Mr Burton himself, Gavin and Stacey actor Rob Brydon and former Afan Valley head ranger Dick Wagstaff. The sculptures were chosen by the local community and installed in 2010 by the sustainable transport charity, Sustrans. Just beside the figures, visitors will find a small but powerful surprise - a listening post that plays a snippet of Richard Burton's iconic voice, reading Dylan Thomas' famous poem: Under Milk Wood. To hear his rich, haunting tones echo so close to where he once roamed is a moment that sticks with you. A trail is available in Afan Argoed in tribute to honour legendary Hollywood actor Richard Burton (Image: Martin Ellard ) The second loop of the trail leads deeper in the heart of the Afan Valley's forest, where the tall evergreens and fern-lined parks makes it easy to see why the area is often called 'Little Switzerland'. Beyond that, there are many other trails for cyclists and walkers just waiting to be explored. Stay informed on everything Neath Port Talbot by signing up to our newsletter here Aberavon Beach needs little introduction; it is a beloved stretch of coastline that has been drawing both locals and visitors for generations. With its long, sweeping sands and a sleek modern promenade overlooking Swansea bay, it's easy to see why it remains a firm favourite. That being said, the reintroduced parking charges have taken a bit of a shine off for some - but its still hard to stay away, especially during these flashes of warm weather. The beach itself is huge - one of the longest in Wales - and provides endless activities for all ages. The northern end is usually alive with sand yachting and kitesurfing making the most of the wind and waves. There is nothing better than a trip to Aberavon Beach on a warm summer's day (Image: John Myers ) What I love most about this beach is how it's a proper family spot. There are two decent play parks that provide safe, fun spaces for children to burn off energy, although Aberavon Aqua Splash might be the real highlight - complete with fountains, jets and "waterfalls" that is the perfect relief during those blistering (albeit rare) heatwaves. A site that must be a part of every local's childhood is the iconic blue whale and penguin statutes that you can check out during your walk along the beach. These relics have been here for as long as I can remember - if you know, you know. For those older kids, there's also crazy golf on the beachfront, which is a good laugh and of course the Reel Cinema; my absolute go-to. Rarely crowded, with a good choice of snacks and the added bonus of being able to wander straight onto the beach after a film for an ice cream - what's not to love? Reel Cinema sits on Aberavon seafront and for me, one of the best around (Image: Google ) Dog owners aren't left out either. While the main beach is not available to dogs during the summer months, the strong line up of cafes and restaurants are more than welcoming. Francos - a popular fish and chip shop, that is a highlight of any beach trip - is completely dog-friendly, offering your furry companion their own menu and abundance of water bowls. Memo Beach Café and Café Remos also welcomes dogs. These are the perfect places to stop for some lunch and coffee, while your dog chills at your side. Personally, a trip to Cafe Remos always has to involve their freshly made ice cream - their strawberry cones are a ten out of ten. Meanwhile, there is also The Front, which has grown quite popular over the years for their tasty burgers and reasonable prices. It's just next door to cinema and even has it's own drive-thru, which is sometimes a must as it's always super busy. If you asked most people about the best spots in Port Talbot, I am willing to bet that Aberafan Shopping Centre wouldn't be too high on the list. But I'm going to say it... there's actually quite a lot going for this place! The ageing shopping centre may be under some scrutiny, but there's a lot to love there (Image: Richard Williams ) One of its biggest claims to fame right now is Spud Fam, a baked potato business that's been making waves on TikTok. The shop is a real family operation - owned by Jordanna Landeg and her husband David, with Jordanna's brother Jude and their mum - all pitching in. Their videos give a behind-the-scenes look at the day to day running of the shop, including some of the interesting spud combos and orders that they serve up; showing just how creative - and delicious - a loaded potato can be. With a loyal following of over 12,000 on TikTok, they've made a name for themselves with their ridiculously loaded baked potatoes and fries. From classic cheese and beans to more adventurous options like beef brisket and their very own "Spud Fam's Bol", they've turned simple comfort food into something a bit more fun. Also in the shopping centre is Portablo Coffi, a coffee shop run by former steelworker Cassius. Opening at the start of this year, its already become a staple of the town thanks to its great coffee and warm, welcoming atmosphere. A wander round B and M's and Home Bargains with a coffee in one hand and a spud from your local independents in the other... sometimes it really is the simple things in life. Just a short drive from Port Talbot, lies Margam Country Park; which while not part of Port Talbot itself, is close enough to feel like an extension of the area's history. At the centre of Margam Park is the magnificent 19th century Tudor Gothic mansion, designed by architect Thomas Hopper for Christopher Rice Mansel Talbot. Built between 1830 and 1840, this Grade I listed mansion is packed with stunning features, from its soaring staircase hall to the distinctive octagonal tower. Margam Castle and it's estate was once owned by the illustrious Talbot family (Image: Robert Melen ) Margam Castle's outbuildings now house the Visitor Centre, which includes a café, gift shop and other handy facilities. Visitors can also explore the Entrance Hallway and the grand Staircase Hall, stepping back into much more opulent times. As a child, I remember Margam being the subject of plenty of ghost stories - the kind that made passing by places like the Castle and Margam Monastery a little spine-tingling. However, those eerie feelings have faded with time, replaced by a real sense of wonder at this beautiful, historic spot. There's lots more to see during a visit to Margam Park beyond the Castle itself. One of my childhood haunts was the Fairytale Village - which although a bit crusty and dusty, still has a certain charm. I loved wandering through, checking out the miniature houses inspired by classic folklore tales. For families, another must is the farm trail. It offers the chance to get up close to a variety of animals from alpacas and donkeys to pigs and pygmy goats. Even in my twenties, I had to take a stroll round there during a recent visit - although I will warn visitors to not go too close to those gates as I was almost victim to alpaca spit! Visitors to Margam also have the opportunity to feed the alpacas (Image: Margam Country Park ) My last bit of advice when visiting is - if you ever get the chance, don't miss the outdoor cinema experience. Watching a film beneath the shadow of Margam Castle is something magical; the atmosphere and setting make it an unforgettable night. Article continues below
