Work to upgrade the section of the Taff Trail through Hailey Park in Cardiff will begin in early autumn.
The scheme is part of Cardiff Council's commitment to improve cycling routes across the city. Following two rounds of public consultation and a thorough review, a revised scheme has been selected, it said. The upgraded cycleway will be 3.5 metres wide, adjusted from the original five-metre proposal in response to public feedback. The new route will broadly follow the alignment of the existing path.
The upgraded path will be constructed using a buff-coloured tarmac to blend in with the parkland setting, will minimise the impact on green space, while ensuring the route is no longer near the children's play area – an issue that was highlighted during public consultations.
The construction of the scheme will also mitigate the following issues that were raised:
- The important habitat for Waxcap fungi at the southern end of the park will be protected through mitigation measures
- The impact on trees will be avoided by using a ‘no dig' construction method, as very short sections of the path fall within the tree root protection areas
- Surface water will be managed through improved drainage.
Cllr Dan De'Ath, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Strategic Planning and Transport, said:
“We have consulted on this scheme twice and have listened to the views expressed. The chosen scheme is in line with the design requirements of the Active Travel Act, while ensuring that the environmental concerns raised in the public consultations are significantly reduced or mitigated.
“Constructing the scheme will involve a ‘no dig' approach to protect tree roots, while an Ecological Clerk of Works will be in attendance to ensure Waxcap fungi are protected.
“The main works will start in early autumn and under the current timeline, the scheme will be completed by March 2026.”
