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Denbigh Public Consultation found 97% in support of walking cycling route

With the vision of creating a traffic-free trail for walking and cycling, linking St Asaph, Denbigh and Ruthin, a formal planning application by Denbighshire CC takes a step forward with a proposal to create a route between St David's Lane and Brookhouse Road in Denbigh following the line of the former railway.

The Council consulted on the development of walking and cycling routes for Denbigh in 2013. Over 7,000 letters were issued to local residents and businesses. More than 700 responses were received: 97% supported the development of new routes and over 80% supporting this proposed traffic free path.

View of the Clwydian Range (AONB) from Denbigh, with the proposed trail in the middle distance

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, says: "There is a lot of support for walking and cycling routes in the area, and as a county council we are fully committed to exploring opportunities to develop more traffic free paths in the interest of the environment as well as people's health and well-being.

"We are aware that a minority group had some concerns about a proposed section of the route going through Denbigh Cemetery and we have listened to their comments and developed a more sympathetic route.

Glyn Evans, Sustrans Area Manager, says, "We know that many people are put off walking and cycling for everyday shorter journeys because they don’t want to mix with traffic on our roads. Routes like this one provide a safe, direct and comfortable experience, meaning people of all ages and abilities can choose to leave their car at home.

"We look forward to Denbighshire’s walking and cycling network expanding as the Welsh Government’s world first Active Travel Act comes into force this summer."

Roy Spilsbury, CTC (the ‘Cyclists’ Touring Club’ Charity), says ‘With this development Denbighshire will be a step further towards laying the foundations of what promises to be one of the very best countryside trails in the UK. Its social and environmental benefits for the local economy cannot be over-estimated. Petrol-free travel leads directly to the cash savings percolating into the local economy without harming the surrounding natural environment.

Such trails also lead to far healthier lifestyles for both residents and visitors. Supported by the recently enacted Welsh Active Travel legislation* this is a wonderful opportunity for Denbighshire to lead the way'.