Fresh hopes for headland link (From Penarth Times)

Fresh hopes for headland link

THE VALE of Glamorgan Council is hoping a fresh funding package will revive the Penarth headland link project.

In a bid to ensure a Welsh Assembly Government grant of £7.5m is not lost, and that the project can be completed in the next two to three years, Vale Leader Cllr Jeffrey James is recommending the council approves £2m in its capital programme, and to underwrite any additional costs.

The link, which is seen as vital to the future regeneration of Penarth, would be approximately 700 metres long joining the town's esplanade and Cardiff Bay barrage.

Vale council leader Jeff James said: "Despite sustained efforts, the council has been unable to identify outside additional funding for this landmark project and, with this in mind, the assembly recently indicated it was minded to terminate its grant.

"However, recognising the vital importance of this project to Penarth, I am going to recommend a new financial package to council and trust that the Assembly will extend the period of its grant, and, therefore, allow the project to commence and to be completed over the next two to three years.

"I am sure I speak on behalf of the majority of members when I say the council is fully aware of the strategic importance of the scheme to Penarth, and feel that its successful implementation will give the town an important link into the expanding Cardiff Bay area, which will be of great benefit to the Esplanade and other areas of the town.

"I know the council has the ability to manage and deliver this scheme and look forward to the green light from the Assembly so that the project can be commenced in the very near future."

Despite discussions on key funding issues with the assembly since 2002, the council has only been able to obtain a commitment from the Cardiff Harbour Authority to contribute an additional £1m towards the costs.