Initial works along the first section of Fan Road in Saundersfoot, have been completed as part of the village’s ‘Active Travel Links’ scheme - with a new 150 metre length of shared use ‘path’ constructed.

“The verges have been reinstated along with new drainage, and signage improvements are to follow,” said the village’s county councillor for the south ward Cllr Chris Williams in giving an update.

“Ecology requirements, including dormice studies and bat investigations were completed in early November.

“The engineering team worked closely with Kite Ecology who ensured that all the necessary site investigations were undertaken and work was able to be approved for the advancement of the scheme.

“The construction therefore has commenced, with instruction given to the contractors, Evan Pritchard.”

The current phase between Saundersfoot Railway Station and Valley Road junction is having site clearances completed, ground levels reduced to formation level, and the construction of the new path programmed.

“It is hoped to complete as much as possible of this section before the Christmas break,” continued Cllr Williams.

“Investigation works has been ongoing to locate an existing culvert that historically has allowed drainage west to east under Fan Road.

“The shared use path improvement required this asset to be found and reinstated to ensure that the path half way along Fan Road could be constructed adjacent to a pond.

“With the pond level being regulated, this will be a unique feature along the improvement. This will allow the future user to experience part of the route that engages close to nature.”

In order to complete the investigations, engineers and the contractors have arranged to complete excavations during December.

“This much needed works will be to clear the culvert and complete the required maintenance prior to construction,” explained Cllr Williams.

Works to Valley Road/Incline junction are now well advanced. Further works at the Fan Road/Ridgeway junction will continue with an access point being constructed to allow a safer crossing onto the Ridgeway.

There will be construction works, including the carriageway surface being renewed under the evening programme works. This work will commence on January 8 and is scheduled to last a week.

“There will be continuing works programmed by Welsh Water diversion works for the resetting of covers to their apparatus. Welsh Water will also look at resetting their covers north of Bonville’s Court Caravan Park,” added Cllr Williams.