Canal project could bring 'wellbeing' for all

The Montgomery Canal and countryside surrounding it from Newtown could soon become part of a new wellbeing project.

Plans are already in place to attempt to open up the canal near Newtown to the rest of the network, but a new project has been created that aims to get people enjoying it and the countryside for their own wellbeing.

The plans, backed by Newtown Town Council, have been submitted to the Welsh Government by Powys County Council.

'Canals, Communities and Wellbeing' is a collaboration between the county council, Canal and River Trust, Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust, Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, and South and West Wales Wildlife Trust.

An initial Expression of Interest has been accepted by the Welsh Government for funding. A full application will now be made by the partnership.

Newtown Town Council's Strategy and Corporate Projects Committee will discuss it on Monday.

The council has its own plans to have the canal utilised more for tourism and the economy.

Referring to the project, Sian Barnes of Powys County Council has told the town council: "It is aimed at creating opportunities for increased wellbeing, for individuals and communities along the corridors of canals in Mid Wales.

"As linear, clearly defined safe spaces, canals provide a good basis for confidence building that, with support, can be used to encourage people into the surrounding countryside for both recreation and amenity.

"The project encompasses both the Montgomeryshire and Brecon and Monmouthshire canals and a corridor of 45 minutes walking distance (approximately 3 miles) wide on either side of them."