Local authorities and community organisations in the Ogwen area have been proactive in encouraging sustainable travel and tourism by introducing innovative measures to enhance the visitor experience.
These initiatives which include improved public transport, parking restrictions and car park sensors will not only improve the experience for people enjoying in the area but also help to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions.
As an alternative to parking in Ogwen, from the 1st of April, Bws Ogwen, Partneriaeth Ogwen’s community electric bus will run 8 times a day from Bethesda to Ogwen, alongside the T10 public bus service.
The Bws Ogwen scheme provides parking in the community of Bethesda with an easy and sustainable way to travel to and from the area, reducing the number of cars on the road. The shuttle bus also includes a drop off and collection at Capel Curig twice daily this year.
An increased community bus service will provide a convenient and eco-friendly way for visitors to travel around the area and will help to encourage people to leave their cars at home or nearby town and use public transport instead.
Meleri Davies, Partneriaeth Ogwen’s Chief Officer said:
“We’re proud that Bws Ogwen is a community led eco-friendly bus service which will reduce parking problems and emissions in the National Park but also create economic benefit for the village of Bethesda. We hope that visitors to the area will choose to spend some time and money here before catching the bus up to the mountains. We also hire e-bikes for those who’d like to travel on two wheels”.
In addition to increased public transport services, parking sensors have been put in place to monitor the number of parking spaces available in the Ogwen Centre car park. This will make it easier for visitors to find available parking spots and avoid unnecessary congestion through using the Parcio Eryri app.
Angela Jones, the National Park Authority’s Partnerships Manager said:
“We are delighted to be working together to tackle the parking issues at Ogwen. This initiative is not only good for visitors, but it will also benefit the local community by creating a safer and more sustainable environment. We hope that these measures will encourage more people to visit the area responsibly and enjoy all it has to offer.”
Parking restrictions are currently being implemented in strategic locations, and will be enforced jointly by both Gwynedd and Conwy Councils. This will help alleviate congestion and promote sustainable travel, whilst respecting the local landscape and communities.
Double yellow lines will show clearly where parking is restricted in problematic areas, particularly during the peak season when visitors flock to the area to enjoy the stunning scenery and outdoor activities.
David Cooil, Head of North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent said:
“We’ve been working closely with partners to address irresponsible parking at Ogwen. We hope that these latest measures, together with last year’s parking improvements, will ensure that everyone can enjoy this beauty spot safely. We encourage those travelling in the area to plan ahead and to park responsibly.”
Road users can check traffic conditions before travelling to Ogwen via the Traffic Wales website.
This multiple effort by all Partners aims to protect the local environment, provide an economic boost to the local community, and promote sustainable travel in the area whilst offering a better visitor experience.
ENDS.
Notes to editors
- Authorities and organisations involved in taking action have included the National Park Authority, North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency, Partneriaeth Ogwen, North Wales Police, Cyngor Gwynedd, Conwy Borough County Council, Natural Resources Wales, National Trust and the Welsh Government
- More information about Bws Ogwen
- Eryri Parking App
- For more information contact Ioan Gwilym, the Authority’s Corporate Services Communications Officer on 01766 772253 / 07900267506 or ioan.gwilym@eryri.llyw.cymru