A WELSH politician has backed plans to introduce a safe new route joining Barmouth Bridge and the town’s harbour.

Shadow secretary of state Christina Rees was in Barmouth last weekend to hear the views of locals about a proposed route which would allow pedestrians and cyclists to travel safely between the town centre and the 150-year-old viaduct.

Barmouth Viaduct Access Group (BVAG) members John Smith, Graham Hogg and Jamie Brooks took the Labour MP for Neath on the existing route that people take from Barmouth harbour and up the busy and narrow A496 as it passes through a twisting gap cutting through the rock to approach the start of the bridge path at Porkington Terrace.

Local town councillor and BVAG member Jamie Brooks explained that BVAG had been campaigning for many years to have a traffic-free alternative route from the harbour alongside the beach to join the bridge near the toll house.

Ms Rees, who enjoys visiting Barmouth, said: “The mouth of the Mawddach Estuary is a stunning location, and I’m keen to work with local people looking to make access safer and more enjoyable for visitors.

“I have been in touch with Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure Ken Skates, and I am delighted that he has agreed to look into the issues raised by BVAG and respond in writing to both myself and the group.”

Barmouth will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of the iconic viaduct from 15 to 17 October.