Headland Link: Key to future? (From Penarth Times)

Headland Link: Key to future?

THE VALE Council believes the Penarth Headland Link project is the key to securing economic prosperity for the town.

But at last week's "State of the Area" debate, a large number of people raised doubts over the benefits the walkway linking Penarth with Cardiff Bay would bring.

This week we spoke to Penarth traders to find out if they thought the walkway really would give a boost to business.

Gordon Toby, owner of Pierson's restaurant on Penarth Esplanade, said: "I honestly can't see the walkway making a big difference to us.

"In my view a car park would be far more use. The people who dine here usually drive in, and the biggest problem we have is that they have nowhere to park.

"I also believe the council would have been better spending money on revamping the Pier Pavilion rather than building this walkway."

Neil Fox, owner of Foxy's Deli, said: "I think the walkway would be a good thing for Penarth if it ever happens.

"It will be a tourist attraction in itself and would bring people into town.

"I think for Penarth town centre to prosper the council needs to encourage small independent traders to open up in the town.

"The goal should be to achieve a similar mix of shops to Cowbridge. We have to offer something different from Cardiff."

Peter Knowles, owner of Hamptons, said: "In my view the walkway idea is a good one.

"The Mermaid Quay area of Cardiff Bay is prospering because of the attractions it has to offer. The walkway would encourage those people to make a visit to Penarth.