Cwm Rhaeadr

 

Background/context

Local residents at Cilycwm in Carmarthenshire had always enjoyed their glorious woodland surroundings at nearby Cwm Rhaeadr, but limited access by way of old public footpaths and a forest walk in need of improvement, meant that not everyone could make the most of this beautiful, secluded valley.

Description/why

"The Cilycwm Community Association approached us at FC Wales Llandovery district, having successfully won a £140,000 grant from Cydcoed to open up the Cwm Rhaeadr woodlands. To make the most of the fantastic grant we worked very closely with members of the Association to bring their plans to life.

To create the mountain bike trail, it was clear that we needed to thin the woodlands first. This would have used a great deal of the grant funds, so we brought forward our planned harvesting activities and were able to clear a corridor through the trees. No further harvesting will be needed for the next ten years and all work has been carried out to ensure minimum future maintenance so visitors can make full and undisturbed use of the wonderful new facilities. Mountain bikers can now enjoy the new four mile circuit, two and a half being singletrack and showcased in the 2006 TransWales endurance event.

For the local residents and visitors to the area who enjoy walking, we have also created a new circular all ability trail, suitable for any age group as well as wheelchair users and young children in buggies. We have also upgraded the existing walk which follows the valley floor up to the Nant-y-Rhaeadr waterfall. Wildlife enthusiasts have been considered with the introduction of two new ponds and finally, horseriders now have a better link from the forest onto Mynydd Mallaen's existing bridleway.

Cwm Rhaeadr now has one of the highest density of access tracks in the district and with natural broadleaf regeneration, it is one of the most beautiful and diverse woodlands to visit.

Future projects

"By combining our forestry skills and knowledge with the drive and enthusiasm of the local community, we have achieved amazing results at Cwm Rhaeadr. We hope to continue to do the same in many other locations across Wales in the future."