THE launch of the £3.3 million Elan Links Project has taken place.

In total some 26 projects will be delivered. These will include protecting and enhancing the natural environment and improving access and opportunities for the public. They will be managed by a partnership board including the Elan Valley Trust, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, Tir Coed, Community Arts Rhayader and District (CARAD) and National Resources Wales. The five-year scheme is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The launch took place on Saturday at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre and included guided bus tours of the valley as well as the opportunity for the public and VIPs to meet the team who will be responsible for delivering the scheme and to find out how they can get involved. There were also opportunities for a hands-on experience of what’s on offer in the Elan Valley, with activities organised by Tir Coed which included an opportunity for people to make something out of wood that they could take home with them.

Dr Ieuan Joyce, chair of Elan Valley Trust and the Elan Links scheme, said: “The Elan Valley is a special place with a unique landscape, story and history.

“This scheme recognises the importance of the landscape of the Elan Valley to local people, our many visitors and those who drink the clean, pure water produced here. The start of this scheme will go a long way towards realising our long-term vision of working with local people and all who care about the area to secure this heritage for the future.”

Specific projects to be introduced during the five years include increasing access to archaeological and built heritage sites, including the half-built Dol y Mynach dam, World War II pillboxes and the Roman Marching Camp; improving existing walking routes and creating new routes for walking/running, cycling and horse riding; activity days and training courses which promote woodland career strands and protecting rare birds and species found in the vast uplands of Elan Valley.

The scheme itself has been in development since 2013, since it was awarded a round one development grant by HLF. During this phase, the threats and opportunities to the unique landscape of Elan Valley and all aspects of heritage within it were assessed and a Landscape Conservation Action Plan developed. This led to the identification of the 26 projects and resulted in HLF granting an award of £1,627,400 to the scheme.

Brecon and Radnorshire MP Chris Davies, who was among the VIPs attending the launch, said: “It was a privilege to be at the launch of the Elan Links project. It is wonderful to see this scheme going ahead and magnificent that organisations such as Tir Coed and CARAD are also playing a part. The Elan Valley is a must-visit location for people of all ages.”

Cath Allan, co-director of CARAD, said: “The launch of this scheme highlights the importance of Elan Valley and Rhayader. Through this exciting partnership the cultural heritage and arts of the area can be promoted and used to show people what’s available on their doorstep and also develop more opportunities for people when they visit the area.”

Vicky Martin, head of visitor attraction at Dwr Cymru, said: “This is a really exciting initiative that will bring enormous environmental, social and economic benefits to the spectacular Elan Valley area. This scheme is a great example of the power of working in partnership and will enable us to enhance the visitor experience and continue to exceed our visitors’ expectations.”

Leila Sharland, director at Tir Coed, said: “The opportunities available for people at to undertake life changing Tir Coed training courses as part of the Elan Links Scheme are welcomed. Getting involved in our free woodland training can make a huge difference to people in our communities who may be struggling. It is exciting to be offering these in the Powys area at the spectacular Elan Valley.”

Further details of the scheme, its projects and the progress over the next five years can be found at the Elan Links website: www.elanvalley.org.uk/elanlinks.