A NEW long distance walking trail in Llandovery is nearing completion.

With the final sections of the Heart of Wales Line Long Distance Trail nearing completion and a grand opening expected in spring 2019, a new pilot project to investigate local benefits of the new walking trail has been launched in the Llandovery area.

Rachel Francis, Acting Manager of the Heart of Wales Line Development Co said: “We want to enhance the local benefits by actively linking the walking trail to local amenities.

“With a little forethought we can actively encourage walkers to try local produce, stay at local hotels and B&Bs, camp at local campsites and enjoy a local pint. Recent studies show that walking trails can bring a number of benefits to local communities, including a commercial benefit for local businesses and a health benefit for those who use the walking trail.

“Amid growing media interest in this project, we anticipate that the final sections of the trail will open in spring 2019, so now is the right time to start thinking about these new opportunities.”

The Heart of Wales Line Development Co has received some funding from Transport for Wales to deliver a pilot project at Llandovery and area that will first and foremost provide information for walkers on station/and in the town.

This is about creating mutually advantageous links between the trail and the town.

As part of the pilot project the organisation intend to organise a simple focus study to assess potential use of local amenities by walkers, to identify key opportunities for businesses and to begin to explore the potential benefits for the area.

Over the next few weeks a team will be designing a posters and information boards for walkers who arrive at the station and a trail information pack for local businesses.

They will also be drawing up a list of businesses in Llandovery who would like to be involved.

For more contact Rachel Francis by emailing rachelzzzyx@gmail.com or call 07985 261014.