Following yesterday’s message (repeated below), we’ve received further clarification from users (who know the area better than we do!) of the impact of the path closure at Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn.
We now understand that the path that’s ‘officially closed’ affects the main route up and down the fall on river-left (usually accessed by crossing the middle of the waterfall) – the only alternative from top-to-bottom being in-river via the ‘slot jump’ (which we understand few providers are now using) – although there are no warning signs at the top, so you come across the closure fence only when reaching the bottom! We’ve asked whether there is any possible workaround for gorge-walking groups, as we appreciate this is a critical route for groups using this area and really not what businesses need at the start of the season: watch this space for any response. In the meantime, Providers should review their risk assessments for this area and may prefer to avoid it altogether- although we understand that the fence can physically be passed if necessary for emergency egress; and if any of you manage to get photos of the fence, please send them through so we can pass therm on.
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NRW has just informed us of the following path closure which will affect gorge walking groups trying to access river-left below Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn until the end of May.
“We are currently having path installation works undertaken to achieve a circular route between Sgwd Isaf and the Four Falls trail and have in place a temporary closure of PRoW (Public Right of Way) 41/68/1 (see pink circled area on map below) to facilitate the works.
“To enable works to progress safely, and to prevent further public incursion into the work site, we have installed a post and rail fence along the bottom of the scree slope, blocking access onto the PRoW section which is temporarily closed. My apologies for not notifying you [in advance] of the temporary PRoW closure…
“Due to the inclement weather between November and March, the progress of path works are behind schedule, therefore I can’t confirm at this time when the works will be complete, but I am hopeful it will be by the end of May. In the meantime, whilst the temporary path closure is in place, we would ask that your members either exit the river via the right hand side embankment (river right) by Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn as per Asterix on map below, or remain in the river and exit at Sgwd y Pannwr.”
