A CYCLE route is to be built around the perimeter of the Buttrills playing fields, after the Vale Council was given a 'Safe Routes in Communities' grant.

The new surfaced route, which will double up as a pedestrian path, will link up with the existing cycle routes on Colcot Road and Port Road.

Rob Thomas, Head of Planning and Transportation at the Vale Council, said the £308,000 grant was part of 'a strategy to provide sustainable transport alternatives to the single occupancy car'.

He said: "The route will benefit pupils who attend Barry Comprehensive as well as any member of the public using the Buttrills field, the Sports Centre or any of the amenities and facilities in the area.

"It is intended as a safe, sustainable alternative to driving which will in turn reduce the risk of road accidents, reduce congestion on Colcot Road, and increase the health of those changing their travel behaviour due to a safe and clean walking/cycling route being available.

"This will in no way affect the football pitches, other than allowing spectators easier access to the field at times of inclement weather, and there is no intention to develop the land as part of this scheme," he added.

Local ward members Cllrs Claire Curtis and Anthony Powell had raised concerns over the plans after being contacted by residents, and on June 13 they met with senior council officers to discuss the issue.

The new surface will be approximately 3m wide, will not be covered or lit, and aims to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists in both directions.

Cllr Curtis said: "I was concerned that residents in the vicinity had not been provided with sufficient details. Most did not know the reason for the footpath/cycleway or the details of its location and the extent of its construction.

"I am happy after meeting with officers, that the scheme should not unduly affect nearby residents or users of the sports field and should offer a valuable amenity to cyclists and pedestrians in the area."

Cllr Powell added: "This additional investment of circa £300k by the Welsh Government in our ward is welcomed. I will work with Cllr Curtis to improve the councilÕs information arrangements on such matters in future".

Construction work is due to start on July 2 and last five to six weeks, to tie in with the start of the new football season. Nearby residents will shortly receive letters from the Council providing full details of the scheme.