A CONSULTATION has been launched over plans to reopen a footpath closed to the public eight years ago.

The footpath, between numbers 13 and 14, John Fielding Gardens, Llantarnam, was closed due to a new development being built.

Torfaen council has now proposed to reopen the footpath to link the community together and provide a shorter, safer journey for school children.

The Active Travel Act (2013) requires councils to improve routes and facilities for pedestrians, and aims to make walking or cycling the most attractive option for most shorter journeys.

"Reopening the footpath would create a joined up, sustainable community in the Llantarnam area, and would benefit local school children greatly," said a council spokesperson. "Residents from both developments will be able to more easily access facilities through the opening of this link rather than having to walk round.

"By reopening the footpath, the school children could travel through the two developments avoiding a busier road. It would cut down on journey time, and it would be safer."

The consultation is open until Friday, April 30, and is open to the wider public, not just the residents of the two developments it will join.

You can take part in the consultation at getinvolved.torfaen.gov.uk