Cilymaenllwyd Footpath Restoration Project
The Cilymaenllwyd Footpath Restoration Project has transformed public access to the beautiful Wenallt Valley, restoring around 4 miles of ancient woodland trails and reconnecting the communities of Login, Efailwen, Pantycaws, and the surrounding hamlets of north-west Carmarthenshire. Led by Cilymaenllwyd Community Council, the project was made possible thanks to just over £57,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund’s Sustainable Communities Grant.
Restoration Work
Over time, many of the valley’s public rights of way had become overgrown and impassable. Funding enabled the clearance and reopening of these routes, including:
- Removal of dense overgrowth and restoration of historic footpaths
- Construction of a new wooden footbridge over the river Wenallt
- Installation of new gates and essential drainage
- Sensitive improvements that respect landowners’ privacy and the natural environment
Work took place between August 2023 and December 2024. A skilled contractor was commissioned to undertake the clearance work, overcoming challenging terrain and weather, while local volunteers restored an entire path themselves – an inspiring testament to community spirit. To support long-term maintenance, the project also invested in a brush cutter and safety equipment for the community’s volunteer team.
Click on the following links for before and after photos.
Community Collaboration
This was a truly collaborative effort involving:
- Local landowners
- Carmarthenshire County Council
- Ramblers Cymru
- West Wales Biodiversity Information Centre
- Natur am Byth
- Login footpath maintenance volunteers
- Many community members and partners
A dedicated Footpaths Restoration project subgroup met monthly to oversee the work, ensuring clear communication, smooth coordination, and respect for landowners throughout.
Enhancing Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity
The Wenallt Valley is rich in wildlife, ancient woodland, and temperate rainforest-like habitats. Biodiversity specialists played an important role in the project, leading to the remarkable discovery of rare Barbastelle bats. In response, new bat boxes have been installed to support their conservation.
The project also encouraged broader engagement with nature. Biodiversity walks, fungi identification sessions, and outdoor learning events helped residents develop a deeper understanding of the landscape. An old telephone kiosk was even repurposed into a local information hub, connecting walkers with the area’s ecology and heritage.
Reconnecting Communities
The restored footpaths offer safe, scenic walking routes that promote outdoor activity, health, and wellbeing. The project has already sparked new community initiatives, including:
- Community guided walks
- A local history group
- Increased volunteer involvement in countryside management
The official opening event in October 2024 saw a fantastic turnout, with residents, volunteers, and partners walking the newly reopened routes and celebrating this major milestone together.
A Lasting Legacy
More than a restoration project, this work has revitalised local landscapes, strengthened community bonds, improved access to nature, and protected precious biodiversity. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, landowners, partners, and the exceptional work of the contractor, the Wenallt footpaths are once again open for everyone to explore and enjoy.
You can hear more about the project and the positive impact the funding has made to our community here.
Click below for more information about Cilymaenllwyd’s:
Or you can contact: cilymaenllwydcc@gmail.com