Vision to transform 'active travel' for Anglesey

LONG-TERM WISHLIST WILL DEPEND ON FUNDS

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE

A WISH-list for the potential expansion of Anglesey's cycling and walking network is currently under discussion.

If ever delivered, the local authority believes it would deliver a "transformational difference" to the way people move around on the island.

Anglesey Council is consulting residents on its future active travel plans. It has published a map that, at face value, seems to indicate a massive increase in walking and cycling routes is on the cards.

Yet large elements are unlikely to materialise in the short to medium term.

According to the map, future cross-island active travel routes could see Menai Bridge linked to Holyhead via the A5.

Another possible south-north route would take advantage of the disused Anglesey Central Railway (ACR), a 17.5-mile line between Gaerwen and Amlwch.

This route has long been coveted by Lon Las Mon as one of Anglesey's greatest unused assets for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. However, as it's on a 99-year lease to railway group Lein Amlwch, it's currently off-limits.

Anglesey Council is at pains to stress the map is less of a roadmap than a required Welsh Government mission statement for securing grants.

Anxious to avoid disappointment, should there be any, the local authority said much will depend on funding and public feedback.

Even if the entire proposed network is built, the work would "take a lifetime". For now, shorter-term goals are being drawn up.

A spokesperson said: "This initial consultation focuses on.... the routes the council aspire to deliver over the next 15 years, rather than a guaranteed construction programme.