Riverside path plans approved despite moped worries

Plans have been approved for the first phase of a one-mile (1.3km) riverside cycle and footpath which could cost £8m.

The shared-use path on the west bank of the River Tawe will eventually connect the Tawe bridges area with White Rock Bridge, linking Swansea with the former Hafod-Morfa Copperworks site and the stadium.

Concerns have been raised about moped riders potentially using the path and other anti-social behaviour, but an application by Swansea council to build a 325m section has been given the go-ahead.

The council's highways team said it wasn't possible to restrict access to the shared-use path to prevent unlawful moped use.

This section will link Coles Close on the Tawe bridges end to a large riverside student complex called True Student.

A future second phase will extend a further 960m to White Rock Bridge.

Low-level lighting will be installed to make the new path feel safe in the evenings and early mornings, the council's application said.

It added that there would also be access for emergency vehicles if necessary.

Native tree and shrub planting will take place in clusters along with wildflowers on verges and embankments.

The council's application acknowledged a section of existing path at the True Student development was "substandard and does not comply with Active Travel guidance" and will be upgraded.

Separately the council is restoring two former engine houses near White Rock Bridge, and river pontoons are in the works.

The area will also be the gondola base station for the Skyline leisure attraction the other side of the Tawe on Kilvey Hill.

In April this year, the council's cabinet approved an £8.2m budget over three years including surveys and project management.