THE group behind the proposed headland link with Cardiff Bay have said they can not yet give any guarantees over costs or timescale for the project.

Former Penarth MP Alun Michael, who is among those championing the scheme, was questioned by residents about the latest news on the project at an open forum hosted by Penarth Civic Society.

He said that they had been encouraged by the level of support from the public and are currently seeking to gain the backing of several bodies such as the Vale council and Natural Resources Wales for the project

The current South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner presented a five minute talk on the subject at the pier pavilion on Friday, and then received questions from the audience.

He said that ideas around cost and time scale for building would be revealed when they are ready.

The group has suggested they feel they could deliver the scheme for less than half the cost of the original, which failed in 2007 due to costs spiralling to more than £20m.

The Penarth Civic Society evening saw a specially selected panel each given around five minutes to speak on particular topics, followed by a question and answer session on the subject.

Members of Penarth Youth Action provided a young person's view of the town and what they would like to see happen, while Penarth Town Council leader, councillor Mike Cuddy, then presented on the progress of the town place plan.

He expressed his disappointment that the Business Improvement District element failed to gain the approval of local traders in a 2014 ballot.

But he said that the town council wanted to see if there was a shared, achievable and sustainable vision for the town.

Gary Soltys, of Stanwell Road based consultancy firm Soltys Brewster, spoke about the public realm and spaces.

He spoke about improving signage, managing street furniture to make the town more attractive to visitors, and the importance of maintaining Penarth's trees.

Stephen Doughty MP was also on hand to discuss Penarth's place in the wider world and how it can promote itself better.

He pointed out that getting visitors from abroad to come to the town was challenging and that Penarth should increase its presence online and accommodation availability.

Cllr Anthony Ernest from the town council was present to speak about the conservation area and maintaining Penarth's traditional buildings.

He said that Penarth has heritage and that many visitors come to the town to view its unique Victorian architecture.

Tracey Alexander, civic society member and town councillor, spoke about the Big Lunch project to encourage fundraising and volunteering for the benefit of the town.

The society plans to hold the lunch in June at the Kymin where there will be tables set out with various headings relating to areas such as libraries, the pier pavilion, Belle Vue Park and other focal elements of Penarth.