THE next phase of work to reopen the Forest Drive at Cwmcarn will begin next week, according to Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

From Monday, contractors will begin landscaping work across eight parts of the attraction, which has been closed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Among work to be carried out will include repairs to the road surface, landscaping, three new play areas and eight waterless toilets. The work is expected to take around 12 weeks.

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Geminie Drinkwater, project manager from NRW said: “This is an exciting time at Cwmcarn Forest as developments get under way to give a new lease of life to an attraction already loved and valued by many.

“Our plans for the forest have been shaped by ideas shared with us by the community and will offer something for every type of visitor – from adrenaline seekers to those looking for moments of peace and tranquillity.

“Unfortunately, our progress has been hampered by the coronavirus pandemic. This has been unavoidable, but we are constantly reviewing our plans and are doing everything we can to move swiftly towards reopening the drive.”

Last December, NRW announced its plans to redevelop eight recreational sites along the seven-mile Forest Drive. In addition to the play areas, this included woodland sculptures and sensory tunnels, as well as a number of all-ability trails and new picnic and seating areas.

A wooden cabin for outdoor learning and health and welling activities was also included in the plans, as well as information signs explaining about the forest’s history, heritage and wildlife.

Parts of Cwmcarn Forest – including the visitor centre and mountain bike trails - have been closed since April as part of efforts to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

As Government restrictions begin to relax, NRW asks visitors to be respectful of others at all times, and observe the social distancing measures in place.