A petition to improve cycle routes and better link Penparcau to Aberystwyth has gained over 200 signatures 24 hours.

Aberystwyth mayor and Penparcau councillor Charlie Kingsbury launched the petition on Wednesday morning and has so far gained 260 signatures.

The petition was launched to link the Rheidol Trail and Ystwyth Trail, two “safe and simple” cycling routes around Aberystwyth and across Penparcau to connect local communities such as Llanbadarn, Penparcau, Rhydyfelin and Llanfarian.

Cllr Kingsbury’s petition also calls for “measures along the A487 to protect cyclists on their way from Penparcau through Trefechan into Aberystwyth”.

“Safer cycling routes are key to connecting communities and promoting health and wellbeing whilst fighting climate change, reducing carbon emissions and pollution,” Cllr Kingsbury said.

“After less than 24 hours since going live, the petition has already picked up over 200 signatures, showing that there’s a real call for linking the Ystwyth and Rheidol cycle trails.

“Recent events have really highlighted the increased demand for expanded networks of safer cycling routes as more and more families have taken to cycling and walking.

“This petition is a long time coming and follows on from discussions I’ve had over the last few years with residents of Penparcau and Aberystwyth.

“In fact, improving cycling infrastructure was one of the points that emerged in the development of a place plan for the local area. I know there are supportive voices at the County Council for this move, and its our hope that we can show the level of local support fur sustainable transport across our communities.”