The future looks bright for Cwmcarn Forest Drive

Cwmcarn Forest Drive, a popular visitor attraction in the heart of the South Wales valleys could have an exciting new future ahead, thanks to a new collaboration between CCBC, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and the private sector.

Caerphilly council’s Cabinet has agreed to work with NRW to jointly seek a private sector partner to further enhance Cwmcarn Forest Drive and Visitor Centre. The site, which is popular with mountain bikers and walkers, boasts a breathtaking scenic drive as well as a visitor centre, coffee shop, camping facilities, play areas and lodges.

The collaboration will seek to build on the proposals that were submitted by CCBC in 2022, as part of their application for the UK Governments ‘Levelling Up’ fund to enhance the attraction offer at the site.

An agent has been appointed, who will market the site and seek interested parties to submit options for consideration about the future of Cwmcarn Forest Drive.

Why are we engaging?

To keep residents and visitors informed of the plans.

Ways to give your views

Attend a face to face drop in sessions at Cwmcarn Forest Drive Visitor Centre on:

Wednesday 16th October 2pm-4pm

Sunday 20th October 10am-12pm

Friday 25th October 10am-12pm

Residents who have any specific requirements such as access, hearing loop, require translation facilities or wish to use the Welsh language at any of the drop-in sessions are asked to contact the team at publicengagement@caerphilly.gov.uk or by calling 01443 864354.

Expected outcomes

CCBC and NRW have signed an agreement to progress ambitious plans to jointly offer the site to a commercial developer and thereby enhance the tourism attraction, while removing the costs associated with managing the site.

For more information about Cwmcarn Forest drive visit - https://www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk/en/