PLANS for a new footpath to keep pedestrians and cyclists clear of a “perilous” road have been put forward.

Gwynedd Council’s draft active travel plan map for cycling appears to include a traffic-free alternative to the hazardous A496 that currently offers cyclists and walkers a risky link between Barmouth and its iconic wooden viaduct, which caters for well over 150,000 people a year.

The council is currently consulting on its Active Travel Plan maps for cycle and walking routes that will encourage residents to leave the car at home and either walk or cycle for their shorter routine journeys.

The Barmouth Viaduct Access Group (B-VAG) has already done the groundwork of establishing a safe route to the bridge that follows the edge of the beach.

B-VAG carried out a survey last year that discovered that, while over 90 per cent of bridge users think the bridge path is an excellent-value facility, 98 per cent also think the access is “dangerous” and “impossible­ for those with add­itional needs”.

It is estimated the project will cost approximately £3m, according to an economic report.

B-VAG spokesperson Jamie Brooks welcomed what appeared to be the inclusion of the B-VAG alternative route in the draft map.

“We have been concerned for many years now about the perilous journey that our local residents are having to make when they cross the A496 twice and cycle or walk alongside the buses and lorries pushing their way through a narrow rocky gorge,” he said.

“If we can get the new route into the Active Travel Plan that will be a vital step on the way to a safer journey.”

Speaking of the possible decision to construct a safe new walkway, a Gwynedd Council spokesperson said: “The council is currently consulting with the public on its draft Integrated Transport Maps for walkers and cyclists in Gwynedd in accordance with the requirements of the Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013.

“The public consultation period began on Wednesday, 28 June, and continues for 12 weeks until Wednesday, 20 September.”

The proposals can be seen on the council’s website at www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/rhwydwaith.