A huge 13M plan aims to transform an abandoned UK tunnel into Europe’s longest to attract tourists.
The group has some money already, but they need more, so they will fundraise. The next step is the Blaengwynfi tunnel entrance. This will be harder because it is deep.
The tunnel opened way back in 1890 and shut down in 1968 due to cuts. They filled both ends by 1981, and it has been abandoned ever since. But most of it is still in good shape.
A survey in 2018 showed the tunnel is 90% sound, though some parts do need fixes. The project has problems, like who owns it. Currently, the Department for Transport owns it but they agreed to give it away later.
They can only reopen it after the transfer, which would go to either Wales or local groups. This happens after ten years of upkeep. The tunnel could boost tourism, and local economies may also benefit.
Martin Roberts supports the tunnel project too, saying it is a really exciting step forward. It could become Europe’s longest walking tunnel. This attracts visitors from many places.
The Welsh government gave £250,000 to the project, and they got £100,000 from the Heritage Trust. Assessment work was funded in 2021. Approval could mean 18 months of digging.