Locals are distraught after gates went up, blocking a well-loved path to the mountain.
Things changed suddenly for the village when gates blocked access to the mountain, shocking and frustrating the community. The gates are located near the forestry gates, standing on private land owned by new residents. Locals felt entitled to their right of passage through the area.
The mountain holds immense importance for Cwmparc. The school utilizes it for outdoor learning, and dog walkers and cyclists enjoy it regularly. Now, gates and seemingly ever-present security guards block them. Police have even been called to the site on occasion.
The people united to fight back so that the path could be reopened for all. Esther Nagle feels the loss deeply, as walking helped her cope after her brother passed. For her, the mountain “means everything”.
Esther had planned to scatter her dog’s ashes there after Shanti died last August, wanting to honor her in their special spot. However, the gates prevent her from doing so, creating a heartbreaking situation.
This path was the only easily accessible route to the mountain, as other routes were too steep for some. Babies, elders, and cyclists all utilized it to the fullest extent. People simply loved the easy access the path offered.
Esther highlights that the gates block the only easy path, explaining that the other path is tough, even for experienced hikers. The council confirmed the gates are situation on private land. They have since sent a letter asking Natural Resources Wales to help.
Esther feels “bereft” about losing the mountain, a sentiment shared by Hiedi Jo Redwood who is also upset that she scattered her mom’s ashes there. Hiedi visits weekly to feel close to her mom.
Hiedi cherishes memories of happy walks with her mom, sharing stories and enjoying picnics there. Her mom’s last walk was on the mountain, signifying it as a place for peace and creating lasting memories.
Hiedi chose the mountain for her mom’s birthday, seeking it to grieve and remember her. It’s a place of connection for her, which is why other people also scatter ashes there. She heard that one woman talks to her loved ones there.
Hiedi worries about the community’s isolation, emphasizing that the area doesn’t have a lot to offer. Furthermore, she says that this access is vital for mental and physical health.
Ceri Lewis has walked there since he was four, asserting that the road has always been a right of way. Residents are justifiably upset by the sudden closure of such an important right of way.
Cyclist Stephen Roberts misses the views and impromptu chats he had while on walkabouts on the path. He calls the closure “disgusting” and unfair. People simply seek to enjoy the mountain once again.
The community sprung into action and started a petition to reopen the path. Richard Clarke created the petition which quickly gained support, with over two thousand people signing it.
Richard wants future generations to enjoy the forest, reminiscing about his own fond childhood memories forged there. For him, it’s about doing right for the children. The community wants to prove how the path has been used in the past.
They aim to get the path recognized as a right of way. David Williams, a lifelong resident, states that road has been used for eighty years. He fears people may never use it again, with no guarantee of being able to use it again.
The process of registering the path could take years, meaning that this issue might take a while to resolve. The British Mountaineering Council supports the residents, and is writing to the Welsh Government so that they can protect historic rights of way.
The council is carefully exploring enforcement measures so that the community is assured that action will be completed at the soonest. They will then gather evidence of path’s long-term use. However, legal progress for the community can be slow. Updates will be provided when available to the area.
Natural Resources Wales is meticulously logging complaints sent by the community. Their legal team will thoroughly review all information. There is no set time for a response, and all residents must be patient until such time.
The council states that the road is not registered, but has ensured residents that the gates are of permitted height. They also noted that this land is seemingly private property. Additionally, the council cannot comment on private access rights.
Police responded to concerns about a man and immediately increased patrols in public interest. Criminal behavior will not be tolerated, and will be dealt with properly. WalesOnline tried contacting the owners of the property, but attempts were proven ineffective.