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.
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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.
Walkers on the path at Deganwy are treated to views across the estuary to Conwy and its castle -Credit: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
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