Some of you may have noticed fencing being erected along the lane leading from Pontneddfechan Community Centre towards the gunpowder works & Loonies' Leap and we are expecting the lane to be gated-off completely in the next few days.

This is not connected with the gunpowder works conservation activity, but is an action being taken by the owner of the lane due to her increasing frustration that the lane's permissive access is being misused both by vehicles and walkers. One reason she has cited is that gorge-walking groups have refused to move out of the way and been verbally abusive to drivers accessing the cottage along the lane. We were very disappointed to hear about groups behaving in this way and trust that our Members will continue to make every effort to ensure that their clients show due respect to local residents and communities.

Brecon Beacons National Park Authority is investigating this issue and we will liaise with them as the situation develops.

We are seeking advice from NRW and BBNPA on the most appropriate alternative routes for gorge-walking groups, but in the meantime, if access is denied along the track, please consider using only the route to/from Dinas Rock over the top of the hill, since the riverside paths on the left bank are in the sensitive 'no-go' area covered by the gorge-walking Concordat. If you do choose to use these paths, please manage your clients very carefully to prevent any environmental damage either side of the existing paths.

We will let you know as soon as we have any further information.

South Wales Outdoor Activity Providers Group