Funding for safe routes in Carmarthen and Pontyberem

Funding has been awarded to create a safer walking and cycling environment for schoolchildren and the wider communities in Carmarthen and Pontyberem.
The council has received funding of £542,759 from Welsh Government to carry out walking, cycling and road safety improvements as part of the Safe Routes in Communities programme.
A grant of £292,759 was awarded to fund a scheme in Carmarthen town and £250,000 towards a range of measures which includes improving access to Pontyberem Primary School.
The scheme in Carmarthen will improve access to Ysgol y Dderwen via Llys Fynnon and improve walking links to Richmond Park School. It includes safer crossing points and traffic calming measures along Lime Grove Avenue and a raised plateau and improved lighting around Pondside, Johnstown. The grant will also go towards a proposed zebra crossing and parent waiting shelter at Model School.
In Pontyberem, the proposals include a new path linking Brandyway with the school; a potential new footpath through the park to the Memorial Hall; improved access to the park, dropped kerbs and tactile crossings; and parent waiting shelters. There are also plans to upgrade to signalised crossing outside the school.
Head of Highways and Transport Steve Pilliner said: “We are delighted that both these schemes can go ahead this financial year. We have already consulted with the local communities and the schools and will continue to work closely with them as the schemes progress.
“These schemes will make a big difference to pupils’ journeys to school by improving walking and cycling routes. It also supports the work being carried out in schools to encourage more children to walk or cycle to school which brings numerous benefits.”