Montgomery Canal Conservation Management Strategy (1.2MB PDF)

12) Subject to funding, the Partnership will promote the use of the canal towpath for hosting sections of regional cycleroute
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Current proposals would seek to utilise the towpath from Pant to Llanymynech, as part of the restoration of the dry
section, picking up the cycle route where it leaves the Cambrian Railway line. More detailed work will be required to
review potential routes on the Wales length.
13) In assessing potential cycling arrangements priority will be given to schemes which:
• Provide linkages to other routes and local services
• Offer safety improvements for existing cycle use
• Offer alternatives to road traffic
• Include comprehensive calming measures
14) Opening of existing facilities to permissive cycling, but with no promotion will be trialled and monitored to assess
compatibility with other uses.
15) All schemes must be fully funded, for both construction and maintenance, and must contain full measures to protect
the interests of other users.
ii.
Wider Linkages
16) Regional and national cycle-routes will be used as a tool to market the Montgomery Canal experience, and a series
of cycle parking facilities will be provided, in order to encourage cyclists to use the canal as a destination, in
preference to a through route.
Within the constraints outlined in Section 5.8.1, stronger links will continue to be explored with highways authorities and
Sustrans, in order to seek to provide additional cycling facilities.
17) The following Initiatives will form the basis of improved links and future wider developments.
• National cycle route 81 (includes Welshpool to Newtown)
• Regional cycle route 31 (includes Oswestry – Llanymynech)
• Newtown to Llanllwchaiarn (south end of canal), constructed to provide a local commuter route for planned
new housing
• Associated local circular routes. Potential routes or small schemes have been mooted for:
– local circuit including Aston-Maesbury length
– Llanymynech/Carreghofa area
– Welshpool to Belan Locks and Llyn Coed y Dinas Nature Reserve
• Supportive of cycle hire facilities
Route development plans are more advanced in Shropshire, where the emphasis is on implementation of identified
routes. In Powys further survey and research is required.
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