Plans hatched more than a decade ago for a cycle path between Carmarthen and Llandeilo have taken a major step forward after Welsh ministers confirmed a controversial compulsory purchase order (CPO) for land along the route. The order had been made in April last year by Carmarthenshire Council, which wants to build the path, while negotiations with affected landowners continued. There were seven objections, although two of them were subsequently withdrawn, and a public inquiry was held.
Richard Duggan, the Welsh Government-appointed planning inspector chairing the inquiry, has concluded that the CPO was justified although the disruption that would be caused to agricultural holdings was, he said, "regrettable". CPOs are considered a last resort to acquire land for projects, and to be successful must demonstrate a compelling public interest. Mr Duggan had to consider, among other things, whether the Towy Valley cycle path would promote economic, social and environmental well-being in the area, and whether the council had enough money to build the cycle path within a reasonable time scale.
For the latest Carmarthenshire news, sign up to our newsletter here His decision report said: "The project has sought to reduce the impact of the shared-use route on the management of individual farms and holdings insofar as is justifiable and practicable. Compensation for any losses would be considered. I conclude that the extent of disruption to the management of agricultural holdings along .
