A POPULAR Aberystwyth cycling trail cannot be promoted as an “active” or “safe” route because it does not utilise a pedestrian crossing just metres away.

The Ystwyth Cycle Trail, which connects Aberystwyth with Tregaron for cyclists and walkers, does not feature on the Sustrans Active Travel Routes Map because a crossing point on the A487 through Trefechan was deemed a “critical fail”, it has been revealed.

Simon Thomas AM said it was “ridiculous” that the route does not make use of the current pedestrian crossing in the village, and claimed to have gained assurances from the Welsh Government that it will consider the crossing as a “potential solution”.

Mr Thomas, regional Assembly Member for mid and west Wales, said: “We have ensured officials will review the situation.

“The Welsh Government is now looking to improve the Ystwyth Trail and the crossing point for pedestrians and cyclists.

“I know the area well and agree that the current pedestrian crossing would be a suitable alternative."

In a letter to Mr Thomas, Ken Skates AM, Cabinet secretary for economy and infrastructure, said: “The Active Travel Design Guidance is aimed at producing high quality routes that meet the required standards.

“Unfortunately, as you have pointed out, the Ystwyth Trail does not meet these standards and so is not included within the Active Travel Routes Map for Aberystwyth.

“We support Sustrans’ detailed assessment and recognise that this route is suitable for cyclists using the Sustrans network."

See this week’s south editions for the full story, in shops and online now