AN EVENT to mark the opening of the new Riverside walk and cycle route will take place at Herberts Wood, Pontnewynydd at 10am on July 12.

Torfaen Council’s Neighbourhood Services Regeneration Team completed the scheme that is part of the £13m Pontypool Settlement Area Project and aims to better connect the communities of Abersychan, Trevethin, Penygarn and Garndiffaith with Pontypool.

Riverside Walk will make it easier for people to reach the town centre to work and shop without the need to use the car or public transport.

At the opening event residents will have the chance to leave the car at home and stroll along the new path.

There will also be a chance to meet representatives from Sustrans and get advice on safer and healthier modes of transport.

The path will be officially opened by the Leader of TCBC, Cllr Bob Wellington at 10am followed by activities until 12noon, which include a sculptural demonstration by a local artist and a tour of the new pat and habitat creation.

The £13m Pontypool Settlement Area Project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Welsh Government’s Targeted Match Fund and Heads of the Valleys Programme, Torfaen County Borough Council, Heritage Lottery Fund, Pontypool Regeneration Partnership, Bron Afon Community Housing , Cadw, SEWTA and private sector investment