Councillors to discuss trail proposal

Town Councillors are due to discuss a proposal from Open Newtown for the creation of a trail around the town.

Councillors on the Economy & Environment Committee of Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council will meet next Monday (8th January) to discuss a proposal from Open Newtown around a new town trail.

In the December committee meeting, Cllr Tracy Owen outlined a proposal from Treasure Trails Ltd, suggesting the creation of a clue-led Treasure Trail in Newtown. The trail would be designed to engage residents and visitors, offering an immersive experience while exploring the town. Treasure Trails Ltd, a company specializing in such ventures, proposed a fee of £595 for their services, and Cllr Owen identified a budget to cover this cost.

The committee authorised staff to investigate the Treasure Trails Ltd offer further, including resource costs, and to report back at a subsequent meeting.

Subsequently, a meeting took place between Cllr Owen, Open Newtown, and officers to explore the potential implementation of the trails in Newtown.

In a report to town councillors, written by the Town Council's Development Manager, they have outlined the subsequent devleoped proposal by Open Newtown and provides details on the project background, proposed route, costs, and potential benefits for the town.

Open Newtown's proposal highlighted the potential of the Treasure Trail to showcase Newtown's rich history and attractions. The proposed route, which encompasses historic buildings and visitor attractions, aims to enhance the overall visitor experience. Open Newtown volunteered to work closely with Treasure Trails Ltd to construct the trail, utilizing their local knowledge.

The costs outlined in the proposal include a fee of £595 to Treasure Trails Ltd for developing the trail, along with additional expenses for signage, pathway enhancements, and trail sheets. Open Newtown suggested selling trail sheets at Hafan Yr Afon, a high-traffic location open seven days a week, with profits contributing to the project's construction and maintenance.

In line with the Economy & Environment Committee's work plan, the proposal aligns with the goal of identifying partners and funding opportunities to support projects that showcase the architecture and heritage of the town.

The report recommends taking Open Newtown up on their officer and collaborating with them to finalize the trail design, and enabling the implementation of the Treasure Trail with financial support amounting to the initial purchase cost of £595. Subsequently, the management, administration, and delivery of the Heritage trail will become the responsibility of Open Newtown.

Photo: Ben Wolf