Aberavon’s AM to engage in further discussions on the Blaengwynfi – Blaencwm Tunnel

David Rees AM has welcomed news that further discussions will take place on reopening the abandoned railway tunnel between Blaengwynfi in the Afan Valley and Blaencwm in the Rhondda, for the use of cyclist and walkers.

During a debate at the Senedd in February 2015, Welsh Government Transport Minister Edwina Hart described the ambitious plan as ‘an exciting opportunity ‘ which she would offer further consideration to.

Since the initial discussion, The Minister has indicated that she will soon meet with local Assembly Members and key society members to consider how proposals can be taken forward.

 David Rees AM for Aberavon commented:

“I welcome the decision taken by the Minister to look into the opening of the tunnel and congratulate the Rhondda Tunnel Society and the local community on both sides of the tunnel for their hard work on this campaign. This will build upon the work of my predecessor, Dr Brian Gibbons, whose vision of opening 4 disused railway tunnels in the Afan Valley has led the way to the current campaign which is now being pursued in more detail by the Minister. I very much look forward to being involved in discussing the opportunities this project would bring for regeneration and tourism in the Afan Valley.”

Leighton Andrews AM for the Rhondda commented:

 “I would like to congratulate the Rhondda Tunnel Society on all their hard work and on an impressive campaign. The proposals have certainly captured the imagination of the people of the Rhondda and Afan valley communities and offer great potential for tourism and generation opportunities. I am excited to see how the project develops.”

 For more information on the project, please visit

http://www.rhonddatunnelsociety.co.uk

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