Proposals for a new Active Travel crossing of the river Wye at Monmouth have taken a major step forward. The proposed design for a bridge for pedestrian and cyclists has now been submitted for planning. The project, which is supported by the Welsh Government’s Active Travel Fund, aims to create a new safe route linking Monmouth and Wyesham that avoids the vehicular traffic on the busy Wye Bridge.

‘Active Travel’ describes journeys with a purpose, such as to and from school or a place of work, undertaken by foot or by bicycle. The current Wye road bridge (A466) is not suitable for Active Travel purposes and a separate car-free crossing has been developed by Monmouthshire County Council in partnership with Welsh Government, Transport For Wales, Sustrans, WSP, Monmouth Town Council, Natural Resources Wales and Haberdashers Schools.

The plans can be viewed, and comments made, on the planning website at https://planningonline.monmouthshire.gov.uk/online-applications/ entering application reference DM/2022/01800.  Public access computers are available at Monmouth library if required.

Cllr. Sara Burch, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Active Travel, said: “I’m delighted that we are moving towards making this project a reality. The new bridge will make a big difference to the people of Monmouth and Wyesham and visitors to our county.  It will make it easier to walk or cycle to work in town and for children and young people to go to school. Completing this project is a priority as part of our Active Travel plans and I look forward to being able to update residents further in due course. So many people have said that they did not feel safe walking or cycling across the existing bridge that it’s right to make it a priority.”

Cllr. Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, added: “Supporting Active Travel is a vital part of our work to tackle the climate emergency. This new bridge will enable more people to leave the car at home and travel by foot or by bike away from traffic; making commuting easier, more enjoyable and more environmentally friendly.”

The bridge forms part of a comprehensive suite of Active Travel plans for the town, with improvements proposed linking Wyesham to the new bridge and from the new bridge to the Kingswood Gate development. Subject to securing planning permission and funding, Monmouthshire County Council expects to construct the bridge in 2024/5.

For more information about Active Travel in Monmouthshire visit www.monlife.co.uk/outdoor/active-travel.