CARDIFF COUNCIL CYNGOR CAERDYDD

EXECUTIVE BUSINESS MEETING: 22 JULY 2009

RIVER AND NANT FAWR CORRIDOR: DRAFT ACTION PLAN

REPORT OF CORPORATE DIRECTOR (ENVIRONMENT) AGENDA ITEM: 3

PORTFOLIO: ENVIRONMENT

Reason for this Report

1. This report provides an up-date on progress with the River Valleys Initiative and, specifically, on the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan, prepared with partner organisations.

Background

2. The Taff, Ely and valleys, together with watercourses like the Nant Fawr, make a unique contribution to the character and form of the city. They provide continuous green corridors between the Severn Estuary and the countryside beyond the urban edge and possess high recreational, biodiversity, historic and landscape value.

3. Several Council Services and many other organisations have specific responsibilities in respect of the river valleys, but until this initiative there were no over-arching frameworks or mechanisms in place to co-ordinate their actions. In 2004/05, the Council established the River Valleys Initiative to develop a more joined-up approach to the planning, management and enhancement of these river valleys. This has brought together a wide range of organisations with responsibilities within the river valleys. Workshops and wider dialogue between organisations have enabled a strong consensus to emerge and a desire to work in partnership to make improvements on the ground.

4. One of the key outcomes from the inaugural workshop was agreement to develop Action Plans for each of the river valleys. It was agreed that the Council’s Strategic Planning Section should initially co-ordinate preparation of an Action Plan for the River Ely Valley in partnership with other organisations. Action Plans for the other river valleys would be prepared in subsequent years.

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5. The River Ely Valley Action was published in April 2006, followed by the River Taff Corridor Action Plan in April 2007. Excellent progress has been made on the Priority Projects identified as a result of the process outlined above, and subsequent partnership work. The steering group for each Action Plan meets twice a year to monitor progress and address any issues that have arisen. The steering group and wider membership of the Countryside Forum also contribute to reviewing, updating and moving the Action Plans forward annually. The Countryside Council for Wales support the River Valleys Initiative by providing some financial support as part of the Partnership Programme, but many projects are partially funded from one or more other sources.

6. The River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan agreed with partners, is appended to this report, as Appendix 1. It is intended to act as a strategic framework for on-going actions that will bring about improvements within the valley. The aim of the Plan is:

To bring relevant organisations together to identify issues, agree a framework and deliver actions that:

• Positively address identified priorities; • Improve the quality of environment; • Bring about the sustainable and long term use of land; • Maximise opportunities for improved access and recreation; and • Raise public awareness of the value of the valley to the community

7. The list of potential priority projects is attached to this report as Appendix 2. Work is currently ongoing to develop and implement these projects with partners, and other service areas.

Issues

8. The Action Plan should help deliver a wide range of plans, aspirations and objectives for partner organisations. For example, it will help deliver Council corporate objectives together with Countryside Strategy aims. There is strong support among partners for the Action Plan approach and it is expected that they will integrate the Plan into their organisations’ work programmes.

9. It is hoped that the evidenced basis for projects and the high level of partnership involvement in developing the Action Plan will assist partner organisations and others secure the necessary resources to help deliver the identified actions. It is anticipated that Council actions will continue to be supported through the partnership programme with the Countryside Council for Wales.

10. The Action Plans have also helped to inform preparation of the Local Development Plan (LDP), by providing a high quality evidence base on the characteristics of these important and distinctive features of the City.

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11. Subject to Local Member consultation, it is likely that the Officers will recommend that the Council support in principle the proposal for Local Nature Reserve designation on Council owned land in the Nant Fawr Corridor prior to seeking the endorsement of the Countryside Council for Wales. This will be addressed in a forthcoming report to the Executive, but the Action Plan relates to the whole of the Rhymney & Nant Fawr and therefore needs to be progressed. Formal approval would bring closure to a process involving external stakeholders who are aware its approval is overdue, fulfils a Countryside Council for Wales grant output, allows the Council to start implementing projects, and means that the Action Plan can be formally referenced in relation to LDP representations and used to help implement LDP policy.

Reason for Recommendations

12. To enable the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action plan to be formally approved enabling projects to be implemented and a steering group to be established.

Legal Implications

13. There are no legal implications arising from the subject matter of this report at this stage.

Financial Implications

14. Several of the Action plans set out in Appendix 2 identify that limited resources are available or that resources are yet to be identified. There is a need to establish the financial resource required for each plan prior to delivery and this should take the form of a robust business case. Any costs arising from this action plan need to be secured from within either existing Service Area Budgetary allocation or external funding sources. Where it is identified that additional costs are required then this will need to be considered as part of the appropriate budgetary round.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Executive is recommended to

(1) approve the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan (Appendix 1)

(2) agree to establish a steering group to facilitate partnership working and oversee the implementation and updating of the programme of projects set out in the Action Plan in consultation with the Executive Members for the Environment and Sport, Leisure and Culture.

STEVEN PHILLIPS Corporate Director 10 July 2009

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The following Appendices are attached:-

Appendix 1: River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Draft Action Plan Appendix 2: Priority Projects

Page 4 of 4 Appendix 1

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Draft Action Plan

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1. Background River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

1.1 Cardiff contains the three major river valleys of the Taff, Ely and Rhymney together with other watercourses such as the Nant Fawr. These make a unique contribution to the character and form of the city by providing continuous green corridors between the Severn Estuary and the countryside beyond the urban edge. The water courses and adjoining open spaces possess high recreational, biodiversity, historic and landscape value. Additionally, they are located close to local communities and offer excellent opportunities for off-road access routes.

1.2 Many organisations and Service Areas within Cardiff Council have specific responsibilities regarding the river valleys. This initiative seeks to establish an over- arching framework that effectively co-ordinates these actions.

1.3 In order to develop a more joined-up approach to the planning, management and enhancement of Cardiff’s river valleys, Cardiff Council established the River Valleys Initiative in the winter of 2004/05. This has brought a wide range of organisations together who have roles to undertake within the river valleys. Successful workshops and wider dialogue between organisations have enabled a strong consensus to emerge and a desire to work in partnership to make improvements on the ground.

1.4 One of the key outcomes from the inaugural workshop was agreement to develop ‘Action Plans’ for each of the river valleys over the following three years. Specifically, it was agreed that the Strategic Planning Section in Cardiff Council co-ordinate the preparation of an Action Plan for the River Ely Valley in partnership with other organisations. The River Ely Valley Action Plan was the first to be developed and published in April 2006. The Taff Corridor Action Plan was developed and published in April 2007. Both the Ely and Taff Action Plans are available to download from the Council website www.cardiff.gov.uk/countryside. Work on implementing the projects contained in the Action Plans is continuing apace with Steering Groups monitoring the good progress being made across many topics.

1.5 The process for preparing, developing and implementing each of the River Corridor Action Plans is similar. In this respect a well attended workshop was held in September 2007 to help identify issues and relevant data sources for the Rhymney Valley and Nant Fawr Corridor. Following the workshop, extensive data collection and analysis has been undertaken together with site visits and discussions with partners to develop the Action Plan and Appendices.

1.6 In February 2008 the annual Countryside Forum was held in Cardiff Yacht club. This included a workshop to identify current progress and new ideas for projects along all three river corridors. This Action Plan will use information and ideas from both the Rhymney Valley and Nant Fawr Corridor Workshop and the Annual Countryside Forum.

1.7 The next workshop will be held for the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor in autumn 2008. The purpose of the workshop is to review the Appendices (reviews will be held annually) and is an opportunity to share the Action Plan with partners.

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2. Action Plan Aim River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

2.1 The River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan is intended to act as a strategic framework for a series of on-going actions that will bring about improvements within the valley. The aim of the Action Plan is as follows

To bring relevant organisations together to identify issues, agree a framework and deliver actions that:

• Positively address identified priorities; • Improve the quality of the environment; • Bring about the sustainable and long term use of land; • Maximise opportunities for improved access and recreation; and • Raise public awareness of the value of the valley to the community

2.2 The Action Plan document evidences the consideration of prevailing issues on a topic by topic basis by identifying a list of key priorities. This is followed by a summary of potential projects that could be actioned to address the identified priorities. Importantly, the implementation of projects will rely on effective co-ordination between a wide range of bodies and also the wider public. The following section demonstrates how it is proposed to bring about actions on the ground.

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3. Action Plan Process River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

3.1 To assist the effective delivery of the projects contained in the Action Plan, a Steering Group comprising representatives from relevant organisations will meet twice a year. The make up of the Steering Group proposed is as follows:

• Countryside Council for Wales • Environment Agency Wales • Cardiff County Council (Executive Members for the Environment and Sport, Leisure & Culture) • Adjoining Local Authorities ( and Newport) • Community Councils • Communities First • Local Access Forum • Cardiff Naturalists • Friends Group

3.2 The role of the Steering Group is to monitor progress in delivering identified projects contained in the Action Plan. Partnership working outside of the Steering Group will obviously need to continue to ensure the successful delivery of projects. However, the Steering Group will enable effective monitoring and review to take place along with identifying new projects that deliver the Action Plan aims. The plan format with a defined list of priorities together with an evolving list of projects will form a sound basis for this on-going exercise. Six monthly Steering Group meetings held in the Spring and Autumn will provide timely opportunities to plan ahead, monitor progress and agree priorities. A formal review will take place after five years.

3.3 The implementation of the Action Plan will therefore clearly be an on-going process. To ensure a strategic joined-up approach, the Steering Group will keep all other partners informed after each meeting. Additionally, the Annual Countryside forum workshops and mail-outs will encompass a wider gathering of all identified partners so the opportunity to review and share best practice can be enjoyed by all. The Steering Group will be facilitated by Cardiff Council (Strategic Planning).

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4. Action Plan Status River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

4.1 The Action Plan sets out a strategic approach, based on partnership working, to improve the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan. In doing this it helps deliver a wide range of plans, aspirations and objectives from a wide range of organisations. For example, the Action Plan helps deliver Cardiff Council corporate objectives together with Countryside Strategy aims. Partnership working to date has shown a strong consensus for the Action Plan approach and partners are encouraged to integrate the Action Plan and their organisations’ work programmes.

4.2 In recognition of this role it is not appropriate for the Action Plan to attain a formal status such as Supplementary Planning Guidance. However, its evolving nature ensures that the Action Plan remains fit for purpose and will help deliver projects on the ground. It is hoped that the evidenced basis for projects and the high level of partnership involvement in developing the Action Plan will assist partner organisations and others secure the necessary resources to help deliver the identified actions

4.3 Additionally, the Action Plan will be used to help inform the preparation of the Local Development Plan and other relevant planning policy documents. This will help ensure that appropriate policies and proposals are developed that are consistent with the aims of the Action Plan.

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5. River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Overview River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

5.1 This section provides a context for the analysis of topics in the following sections by giving a brief description of the characteristics of the river valley

5.2 Outside Cardiff - The River Rhymney previously formed the boundary between and and is sourced on the Southern edge of the unspoilt landscapes of the Brecon Beacons. The river steeply descends into the town of Rhymney in Caerphilly, which was founded with the establishment of the Bute Ironworks in 1802. Steam coal pits were starting to open in the mid 19th Century and the iron works eventually closed in 1891. Before the Industrial Revolution and the development of the Welsh coal mining industry much of the valley was rural and farmed. The river also travels through the former coal mining communities of , , , Bedwas and Machen. As the name Ystrad suggests the southern end of the Rhymney Valley is wide and flat.

5.3 As the river enters Cardiff it is predominantly rural in character passing by the parish of Llanedeyrn before reaching the urban areas of Llanrumney to the East and Pentwyn to the West. The river passes by the 15th Century Church St Edeyrn named after the Celtic Saint of the same name. The open space of the Valley floor narrows as it is occupied by the A48 and residential buildings. Downstream of Llanrumney High School the Rhymney trail lies on top of the river’s man-built levees alongside playing fields and open space.

5.4 Immediately after the Riverside playing fields the river meanders signalling the early stages of the formation of oxbow lakes. To the East of the river at this point is the attractive Rumney Hill Gardens, a popular council-owned local park that includes tennis courts and a bowling pavilion. On the other side of the river is the Howardian Nature Reserve. Previously a refuse tip in the early 1970’s it is now contains a range of habitats including woodland, wildflower meadow, ponds and reed beds. Entrance to the nature reserve can be found on Hammond Way and Ipswich Road. The management and enhancement of this site is enthusiastically supported by Friends of Howardian.

5.5 The Valley floor narrows considerably as it meets the western end of Rhymney Hill. Small cliffs have formed as the river meets the mass of the hill revealing some of the oldest rock in Cardiff and this has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its geological importance. As the river passes around Rumney Hill, there is a major highway crossing interrupting the previously extreme flood plain. Before this ‘pinch point’, the Rumney Trail leaves the flood plain and passes over Rumney Hill, through Rumney Hill Gardens and then passes down the other side to Tredelech Park which was officially opened and named in March 2003. In 2001 a 4 hectare lake was created which is now home to an array of fish and includes a boardwalk. The park was designed with an emphasis on conservation and wildlife. Between Tredelech Park and the coast lies the Lamby Way landfill site, a major landfill facility nearing the end of its operational life. It occupies a large area, and forms a locally prominent hill with wide views over the surrounding area and estuary.

Page 6 of 14 5.6 Rhymney Foreshore – The Rhymney River is the only tidal river in Cardiff, flowing into the Severn Estuary which has the second largest tidal range in the world. At low tide the Rhymney foreshore reveals mud flats; a habitat that comes under the UK’s Biodiversity Action Plan and is important for migratory birds. This area includes four designations: Site of Special Scientific Interest; Special Protection Area; Special Area of Conservation; and Ramsar. There is also two salt-marsh SINC’s (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation). Adjacent to the foreshore are the Wentloog Levels, an area designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique habitat and associated wildlife. The Wentloog Levels are protected by a sea wall and drained by a network of reens that are a haven for rare species such as the great crested newt. Cardiff Council is currently working with local partnerships and landowners to input, oversee and progress a route along the coastline of Cardiff as part of the Welsh Assembly Government’s initiative to improve coastal access.

5.7 Nant Fawr Corridor – The Nant Fawr Corridor stretches from the Caerphilly Ridge north of Lisvane and flows into the River Rhymney just downstream of Howardian LNR. The Corridor contains a wide variety of different habitats such as woodlands, grassed areas, streams, marshes and meadows. The Nant Fawr Community Woodlands occupy part of the corridor and its name derives from the Nant Fawr stream that flows through the woodlands and the majority of the corridor. The Nant Fawr Woodlands together with the many open spaces provide an invaluable wildlife corridor between Roath Park and the open countryside beyond the reservoirs.

5.8 The two reservoirs, Lisvane and Llanishen, are highly valued by the local community and provide an aesthetic and recreational resource. Both reservoirs are no longer in operational use but are of great importance for a diverse range of wildlife. Lisvane reservoir has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) since 1972 due to its importance for migratory birds. The embankments of both Lisvane and Llanishen reservoirs have been designated their own SSSI due to the presence of importantly diverse grassland fungi. Llanishen reservoir is also home to Llanishen Sailing Centre which offers courses for all levels of skills.

5.9 Roath Park is situated further south along the Nant Fawr Corridor and is one of Cardiff’s most popular parks which includes a 30 acre lake. The lake was formed with the damming of the Nant Fawr stream and offers a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife as well as being a recreational resource for fishing and water sports. Within the park there is a varied range of habitats that attracts a variety of wildlife and islands within the lake also act as safe nesting sites.

5.10 Roath Brook connects Roath Park to Roath Mill Gardens and Waterloo Gardens and has been designated a Site of Interest for Nature Conservation due to its importance to wildlife. The gardens are located in a Conservation Area that seeks to preserve and enhance the distinct character of the park and the surrounding Edwardian housing. The brook continues for just under a mile through a commercial area but does not contain a high degree of public visibility or access.

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6.1 Key Strategic Priorities River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

6.1 The following list represents the key strategic priorities identified following data collection, analysis and issues raised through workshop feedback and subsequent follow-up work. SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis has been undertaken to assist in summarising the key issues. The priorities respond to key issues raised and are listed under the appropriate topic headings, they are designed to act as a catalyst for action. This list will form the basis for the development of specific projects and actions on the ground. In some cases, a project may relate to just one priority, others may involve tackling a number of related priorities.

6.2 SWOT Analysis – The table below summarises issues considered to be of greatest importance to the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor.

Strengths

• Much of the land is within Council ownership • Good access – footpath network • Limited development • Identifiable links to the coast • Rhymney is the only tidal river in Cardiff • Diversity of Landscape and biodiversity value – Nant Fawr, wildlife corridor • Historical and geological value • Nant Fawr within Conservation Area • Awareness raising by friends groups and local community – newsletters • High tourism value and social focuses – refreshments, pubs etc • Green space used for recreational activities • Good public transport links • Scope for educational use e.g. Duke of Edinburgh Award

Opportunities

• Links into the wider network in other authorities • Funding from Section 106 Agreements • Linking individual parks • Link to the coast and coastal path • Gateway to ‘Valleys Regional Park’ • Circular route linking the Nant Fawr and Rhymney • Redevelopment of Lamby Way tip • Multi-Use Paths – foot/cycle/bridleway • Improve access and ensure access for all • Promoting health benefits – Walking for Health • Recreation – improve access to waterways, WAG initiative • Educational/schools programme – Links with local schools • Safer routes for schools • Vandal proof furniture • Creation of Friends group for the river Rhymney • Promoting the Trail and other routes – signage, leaflets, interpretation boards, use of community newsletters • Biodiversity enhancement and promotion • Potential for circular walks • Commuter route for cyclists and link to proposed north Cardiff Peripheral cycle way

Page 8 of 14 • Extending the Rhymney Trail to County boundary and beyond

Weaknesses

• Lack of signage/branding/publicity • Negative perception of sections of the Rhymney Trail • Limited maintenance funding and a lack of resources • Private land ownership • Access to Howardian and lack of links • Links from Llanedeyrn and Pentwyn to the trail • Limited access between the coast and Rhymney Hill Gardens • Biodiversity is affected by trail bikes and scooters • Lack of parking and information • Anti-social behaviour and vandalism • Fly tipping and litter • Lack of ownership by the community • Poor management of biodiversity • Lack of ‘public’ sports facilities e.g. cricket • Legal status of some of the paths

Threats

• Development e.g. Current development proposals relating to Llanishen Reservoir • Flooding • Tidal risks – Global warming • Anti-social behaviour, vandalism, fly tipping and litter • Crime/negative perceptions • Damage to pathways by motorbikes • Lack of ownership of the Rhymney • Maintenance costs • Increased usage – balance needed between usage and biodiversity

Access and recreation

6.3 Enhancing, extending and maintaining the Rhymney Trail – Once completed the Rhymney Trail will run the length of Cardiff from the Coast and the proposed Coastal Path, to Cardiff’s boundary linking in with the wider network in Caerphilly and Newport. This will provide a significant recreational resource for the East of Cardiff and also an important route for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides of the river corridor for work, school etc. promoting sustainable travel. Some sections of the trail are already in place with a need to finalise the route and improve wherever it is needed. Once the trail has been established it will be necessary to ensure that it is suitably way-marked and promoted so that the public are fully aware of its existence and identify routes for cyclists and equestrians wherever possible.

6.4 The Nant Fawr Corridor – offers potential for identifying and developing a continuous trail to link with the wider network. The best route and its sustainability for multi-use needs further investigation but should include Roath Park, Nant Fawr, Coed Y Felin, and Cefn Onn to the Ridgeway.

6.5 Creating a better network – In order to maximise the recreational and practical potential of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridor it is desirable to create an effective network of routes that provide choice, variety and good links to the community. In this respect, it is necessary to examine the existing Public Rights of Way network, the extent of public open spaces and to consider how access can be improved to, within

Page 9 of 14 and beyond these areas and routes. This includes investigating the potential to create circular routes between and from the two main trails. A primary objective is to link in with the coast and the future Coastal Path, which is due to be completed by 2012 and is a Welsh Assembly Government initiative to produce an all Wales Coastal Path. The Rhymney Valley stretches from Cardiff to the Southern edge of the Brecon Beacons so it is essential that links are made with local authorities to extend the Rhymney Trail through Caerphilly and beyond with a joined-up approach. Maintenance is an issue high on the agenda across the whole network to ensure the continual upkeep and standard of the paths and environment. Finally, a good network should have excellent connections to public transport.

6.6 Providing access for all – In all access-related and recreational initiatives, the needs of all user groups should be considered at the outset. For example, where possible, it is desirable to provide access for all users including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders. Practical issues relating to user-conflicts need to be considered in this context to address existing concerns and develop future initiatives that reduce, not exacerbate conflicts. Whilst practical issues can create problems in delivering this aim, it is desirable that all reasonable efforts are made to provide access for all. Similarly, the issue of resolving motorbike problems needs to be addressed in a manner that takes full account of the implications for other users such as horse riders and those with wheelchairs and pushchairs.

6.7 Promoting health benefits – The health benefits of walking, horse riding, cycling and informal recreation are well documented and promoted by the Wales Assembly Government. Wherever possible, the health benefits of physical activity and access initiatives should be considered and opportunities taken to add value to initiatives by highlighting the link between physical activity and good health. Specific initiatives are already being undertaken in the Rhymney Valley with this as a key theme such as the ‘Walking for Health’ walks in the Riverside Playing Fields and the creation of the off road walking/cycling route from Newport Road to Pontprennau Link.

6.8 Maximising use of open spaces – Similar to the Taff and the Ely, the Rhymney Valley and Nant Fawr corridor, contains a significant amount of open space. Areas include Tredelerch Park, playing fields adjacent to the Rhymney River including the Riverside playing fields, Rumney Hill Gardens, Howardian Nature Reserve, Roath Park, Nant Fawr Meadows and Woodlands and the Lisvane and Llanishen reservoirs. The Rhymney Valley and Nant Fawr corridors have a diverse range of environments and habitats each with their own distinctive character from the mud flats of the coast to the open countryside in the North. It is desirable that these spaces are appreciated and easily accessed by the local community in a way that respects their key characteristics and significance. Activities should complement their setting whilst also providing a resource for formal and informal activity close to home. In areas of significant recreational activity or sensitive environments, the compatibility of uses requires careful attention along with impacts on other non-recreational users.

6.9 Maximising range of activities – In some respects, this is linked to the above point but rather than considering the management of the land, this is more concerned with the range of activities that do or could take place in the river and adjoining spaces. The river valley already accommodates a range of activities such as formal sports, fishing, walking and cycling to a certain degree. There is potential to explore how these activities could be improved and consider if other activities could successfully be introduced. For example, the feasibility of canoeing or sailing could be explored along the Rhymney River and also suitable routes to Cefn Mably Farm Park and other attractions could be investigated.

Page 10 of 14 6.10 Securing access and recreation benefits in new developments – New developments adjacent to the river provide an opportunity to improve the provision of recreational and access facilities within and near the site in question.

6.11 Promotion and Interpretation – Roath Park is already well promoted and offers a range of activities and events. Many of the other open spaces such as the Nant Fawr, Howardian Nature Reserve and Coed-y-Felin already have active friends groups with well promoted paths, interpretation boards, leaflets and events. However there remains considerable scope for enhanced promotion of a signed Trail along the river corridor and additional interpretation at other locations.

Biodiversity, landscape and historic environment

6.12 Collecting and reviewing baseline biodiversity data – The Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridor is a rich biodiversity resource close to large numbers of people. It contains a wide variety of habitats that provide a haven for wildlife. The continuous nature of the valley and its links to the estuary and countryside provide a classic wildlife corridor. It is therefore not surprising that the valley, including the Nant Fawr corridor, contains 3 SSSI’s (Sites of Special Scientific Interest), 1 LNR (Local Nature Reserve) and also a large number of SINC’s (Sites of Interest for Nature Conservation). Biodiversity interests extend to species including those of European protected status such as the otter, bat and dormouse which are known to reside within the corridor. The connectivity between different habitats is also a key importance for the movement of species. Cardiff Council holds many biodiversity records. There is a strong case for gathering up-to-date baseline data in conjunction with partners such as voluntary groups, Countryside Council for Wales and the South East Wales Biodiversity Record Centre to effectively inform decision making that may affect biodiversity interests.

6.13 Managing and enhancing biodiversity assets – Action is often required to maintain and enhance biodiversity assets. This is particularly relevant where sites are vulnerable to change. Cardiff’s Council’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan and the Cardiff Biodiversity Partnership help to provide a context for such actions. Together with more detailed work resulting from this Action Plan, this will assist in the identification and prioritisation of suitable enhancement projects to be progressed. Furthermore the Countryside Council for Wales partnership programme will act as an effective delivery mechanism.

6.14 Managing, enhancing and interpreting the landscape - The 2007 LANDMAP landscape study of Cardiff included the three river corridors which were not included in the 1999 study. The 2007 Landscape Character Area assessment study revealed that the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor contained a range of landscape qualities. The study highlighted the importance of the three green corridors, and the variety of habitats. Further consideration needs to be given as to how to respond to these findings in terms of appropriate planning policy coverage and management. A number of key issues were identified including managing and maintaining key features such as Cefn Onn and Roath Parks, and the integrity of the landscape when subject to degradation associated with built development, loss of agricultural use, ‘horsiculture’, and fly-tipping. The Action Plan will seek to maintain and strengthen positive attributes, and reduce or remove negative ones by progressing with the implementation of suitable projects on the ground. Further work is required to raise public awareness and provide interpretation of the landscape and features of importance. This can be linked with the development of the trails and green spaces along the corridors.

Page 11 of 14 Planning and Land Use

6.15 Providing appropriate planning policy coverage – Work has now commenced in Cardiff Council on the preparation of a Local Development Plan (LDP). This will provide the main statutory planning policy guidance for Cardiff and will be the core document that future Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) will relate to. Many existing policies are particularly relevant to planning issues in Cardiff’s river valleys. Therefore, policies should be suitably drafted to ensure that the aims of the Action Plan are incorporated where appropriate. Opportunities may also exist for the production of SPG, Planning Briefs or Area Appraisals to address specific issues within the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridors that are more appropriate to be progressed outside the LDP process.

6.16 Bringing about the sustainable and long term use of land – Not all of the land within the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridors is currently put to good use, although the majority is generally well managed and well used. It is appropriate for the Action Plan to raise the consideration of such sites in the context of the valley as a whole. There is certainly scope for relevant bodies to discuss the sustainable and long term use of land. Of particular relevance to the River Rhymney is the future land restoration at the Lamby Way landfill site. It is important that future restoration proposals maximise the potential offered by the unique location adjacent to the river and coast, offering considerable scope for recreational and educational benefits.

6.17 Ensuring new and existing developments enhance and do not harm the qualities of the valley – New developments within the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor can deliver significant benefits that are consistent with the aims of the Action Plan. Greater awareness of the issues raised in the Action Plan can help to identify material factors that may be relevant, such as habitat retention and access to the river corridors when development proposals are being considered. Similarly, efforts need to be made to address problems caused by existing uses that unacceptably impact upon the qualities of the corridors.

Community Factors

6.18 Encouraging community participation and developing links with local groups – It is considered that this approach is a good way of helping to develop a greater understanding, appreciation and use of the assets of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridors. Moreover, this approach could deliver a long-lasting involvement in local activities. For example, there may be scope to consider directly involving local residents in the design and implementation of local projects together with becoming actively involved in the management of open spaces. Efforts need to be made to reach all groups. The active involvement of specialist organisations such as Communities First and the use of current best practice toolkits will assist the delivery of high value projects.

6.19 Addressing anti-social behaviour and community safety – In addition to the above issues, there is a specific issued to be tackled concerning anti-social behaviour and community safety. Whilst areas of the corridors are well used and enjoyed in a responsible manner, there remain issues relating to unauthorised motorcycling, vandalism, graffiti, perceived dangers, or other anti-social activities. It is hoped that the Action Plan will stimulate renewed dialogue between the relevant groups to identify and deliver projects that tackle areas of concern and other issues that relate to the corridors. Experience from other sites in the UK demonstrates that increased responsible usage serves to reduce incidences of anti-social behaviour.

Page 12 of 14 Water quality, flooding and riverbank issues

6.20 Tackling litter – Litter carried by the river, litter dropped on site and fly-tipping can have serious negative effects on the amenity value of the valley and is recognised as being a very significant issue. It can also add to negative perceptions of the area, discouraging responsible usage. The Action Plan seeks to bring together relevant groups to address these issues e.g. Keep Wales Tidy.

6.21 Dealing with invasive species – River corridors can often be prone to invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam. These can rapidly colonise river banks and adjoining land. There is evidence of such species becoming established in some areas although no comprehensive survey or action plan has been prepared to address this issue in the three river corridors. A number of partner organisations have a role to play in dealing with this issue and it is hoped that the Action Plan will assist bringing about positive measures to tackle the problem.

6.22 Maintaining and enhancing water quality - Water quality in the River Rhymney has dramatically improved in recent years as improvements have been made to drainage systems, and mining related activities have ceased upstream. The South East Wales Rivers Trust has helped to launch an initiative to monitor the health of the river Rhymney called the ‘Fly Life’ monitoring project. This involves the ‘Fly Life’ monitoring group surveying a number of different invertebrates present in the river on a regular basis to assess the quality of the water. It is necessary to maintain and enhance water quality and the Action Plan process is set up to encourage pro-active actions that encourage partners to work together to improve the existing system and respond to identified priorities. Consideration may also need to be given to upstream issues and dialogue opened up with new partners if appropriate.

6.23 Addressing flooding issues – It is part of the natural river system process for rivers to flood, hence the presence of floodplains alongside the watercourse. The possible impacts of climate change and more development means that flood risk remains a serious issue. To address this issue, the Environment Agency is producing a Catchment Flood Management Plan for the Eastern Valleys, which includes the Rhymney River, in partnership with relevant organisations. The Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan process can help provide a means to capture issues and share information with the Environment Agency. Challenges for the River Rhymney are particularly significant with regard to anticipated increased flood risk due to climate change as the Cardiff section of the river is at the bottom of the catchment area, which will be influenced by the anticipated rise in sea levels. The Catchment Flood Management Plan process will include wide consultation that will provide an opportunity to discuss future implications within the Rhymney Valley.

Page 13 of 14 7. Actions River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan

7.1 The whole purpose of the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Action Plan is to establish an agreed framework that will deliver a wide range of actions that respond to the key identified priorities. As outlined in Section 3, implementing the Action Plan will very much be an on-going process. There will clearly be a need for the Steering Group to manage this on-going process by helping to prioritise and co-ordinate the range of actions undertaken.

7.2 The Action Plan document will therefore change over time as specific actions are identified, prioritised and completed. For this reason, the list of current actions will be contained in an Appendix to the Action Plan. The main body of the Action Plan should remain robust up to its five year review but the Action List Appendix will be amended on an annual basis. Therefore, each year, a new Action List Appendix will be prepared that provides an update on completed actions together with an Action List reflecting initiatives proposed to be undertaken in the near future. The Steering Group will co-ordinate this process and there will be opportunities for all partners to input into the process. In summary, the Action Plan document will form the overall programme with the Action List Appendix summarising the projects being undertaken at any one time to deliver the Programme aims.

7.3 It is important that the Action List Appendix contains an appropriate level of information to adequately describe the proposed initiative and how they relate to the key priorities, together with an explanation of the benefits of each proposed project. Similarly, it is most useful to consider at the outset who might be involved, how the resources to deliver (and maintain) might be secured and likely timescales. This information will be presented on an A4 template. The list below summarises information that will be required to identify possible future projects in the Action List Appendix:

Project Title – A one line title for the proposed action Outline – Brief summary describing the project and its outputs Background – Brief summary of any relevant history or decisions Priorities addressed – Simply quoting the relevant key priorities being addressed Benefits – Brief summary of anticipated benefits and outcomes Lead Organisation(s) – State Lead organisation(s) including contact details Other partners – List of any other potential organisations who could be involved Resources – Outline of staff, financial and other resources required to deliver project Timescales – Anticipated timescale for project Issues – Summary of any relevant issues or risk Progress – Any work undertaken to date Next Steps – Actions required to progress implementation

Page 14 of 14 Appendix 2

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridor Draft Action Plan

Page 1 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Access and Recreation Project No. AR1

Project Title Develop and improve the Rhymney Trail in Cardiff to provide a continuous route from the coast to Caerphilly/Newport. Outline The overall aim is to create a continuous walking and cycle route from the coast (Including to the Cardiff border along the Rhymney River to link into the regional network outputs) and Nant Fawr. Parts of the trail have already been completed. Background The Council is promoting and developing a strategic recreational network along the three river corridors in Cardiff, to link with the coast and countryside in Cardiff and adjacent local authorities. There has been considerable pressure from the general public, user groups, the Countryside Forum and the Local Access Forum to develop these routes. Priorities 6.3 – Enhancing, extending and maintaining the Rhymney Trail. Addressed 6.5 – Creating a better network. Benefits The proposed trail will provide an attractive, mostly off-road, route which will provide a significant new recreational resource in east Cardiff, for local people. It will also provide sustainable access to the All Wales Coastal Path when created and an alternative to car journeys in the East of Cardiff by encouraging people to walk and cycle to work or for leisure purposes. Lead CCC Organisation Other Caerphilly and Newport LA’s, SUSTRANS, SAFE, BHS (British Horse Society), Partners Ramblers Association, Cardiff Cycling Campaign. Resources Limited resources available from CCW/CCC Annual Partnership Programme, but substantial other sources to be identified. Timescales Partially completed, work is ongoing. Issues Securing resources to develop the route. Land ownership – from Pontprennau northwards the Trail runs across private land – only partly on Public Rights of Way. Need to link the existing trail to the Public Rights of Way. Ensuring that where the Trail crosses the County Boundary it links with the regional network. Finding the best route through the Newport Road area where riverside access is not possible. Cycle access is currently limited to Rumney Hill garden – Pontprennau section. Securing cycle access over privately owned land is likely to be difficult. Equestrian access in Cardiff limited – identifying and securing equestrian access to some sections – e.g. All Wales Coastal Path. Resources for future maintenance. Signage and promotion as River Trails.

Progress Some sections between the coast and Llanrumney are already in place. Next Steps Identify and explore options for the Rhymney Trail. Meet with adjacent Councils to explore links with regional network. Work with Coastal Access Officer to try to secure funding and link route south of Parc Tredelerch to the All Wales Coastal Path.

Page 2 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Access and Recreation Project No. AR2

Project Title Identify, develop and improve a continuous route along the Nant Fawr Corridor. Outline The overall aim is to create a continuous walking and cycle route along the Nant (Including Fawr/Roath Brook, and link with the Rhymney Trail. There are already well used outputs) and maintained routes through Council owned Parks and Green Spaces along The River corridor. Background The Council is promoting and developing strategic recreational network along the three river corridors in Cardiff, to link with the coast and countryside in Cardiff and adjacent local authorities. There has been considerable pressure from the general public, user groups, the Countryside Forum and the Local Access Forum to develop these routes. Priorities 6.4 – The Nant Fawr Corridor. Addressed 6.5 – Creating a better network. Benefits It will provide a sustainable alternative for journeys in the East of Cardiff by encouraging people to walk and cycle to work or for leisure purposes. With apparent health benefits an attractive, mostly off-road, route will provide a significant new recreational resource in Cardiff. Lead CCC Organisation Other SUSTRANS, SAFE, BHS, Ramblers Association, Cardiff Cycling Campaign, Partners Friends of Nant Fawr, Friends of Coed-y-Felin. Resources Limited resources available from CCW. Other resources may need to be identified. Timescales Identification of options for route 2008/09. Issues Identification and agreement on route. Resources to undertake improvements and maintenance. Identifying a link to the Rhymney Trail. Creating an identity and promoting the Trail. Land ownership – mostly on Local Authority land or PROW. Identifying the potential for multi-use – cyclists and equestrians. Ensuring proposals for new development do not result in the loss of a continuous route. Securing long term access to the Llanishen Reservoir area. Progress Some sections through parks and green spaces are already in situ and well maintained. Next Steps Survey, identify and consult on a potential route.

Page 3 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Access and Recreation Project No. AR3

Project Title Identify and develop links between the Rhymney and Nant Fawr trail and the wider strategic network. Outline The overall aim is the completion of a continuous cycle/pedestrian route along (Including the Rhymney from the Coast to the edge of Cardiff that will link with a trail along outputs) the Nant Fawr. The route will also have links with the future All Wales Coastal Path. This route will be ideal for commuting and leisure in the East of Cardiff and will offer a mostly off road route for many people. Parts of the trail have already been completed. Background The Council is promoting and developing strategic recreational network along the three river corridors in Cardiff, to link with the coast and countryside in Cardiff and adjacent local authorities. There has been considerable pressure from the general public, user groups, the Countryside Forum and the Local Access Forum to develop these routes. Priorities 6.3 – Enhancing, extending and maintaining the Rhymney Trail. Addressed 6.5 – Creating a better network. Benefits This will provide an attractive mostly off-road, route; a significant new recreational resource in Cardiff, and facilitate long distance and circular walks for leisure purposes for Cardiff and South East Wales residents and tourists. It will also provide a sustainable alternative for journeys in the east of Cardiff. Lead CCC Organisation Other SUSTRANS, BHS, SAFE, Ramblers Association, LAF, Cardiff Cycling Partners Campaign, Friends of Nant Fawr, Caerphilly Council, Newport Council. Resources Limited resources available from CCW/CCC annual countryside partnership programme. Other sources need to be identified. Timescales Commencing 2008/09 and ongoing. Issues Resources to develop the Trails in Cardiff. Maintenance costs. Land ownership. Developing links across the borders to link with the strategic and promoted routes in other LA’s. Developing links to the regional network for cyclists and equestrians. Progress Some sections of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Trails are already in place.

Next Steps Meet with Caerphilly and Newport to explore where cross boundary and circular links could be made for walkers, cyclists and pedestrians.

Page 4 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Access and Recreation Project No. AR4

Project Title Identify links between Rhymney, Nant Fawr and other green spaces to create circular walking routes. Outline A link between the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridors will create a potential long (Including distance circular route, using the regional network of routes. The aim is also to outputs) create shorter circular walks taking advantage of the abundance of open green spaces in the two corridors e.g. Roath Park, Rumney Hill Gardens, recreational playing fields. Background Easy to follow circular routes are generally most popular with the public, particularly those who do not have a lot of experience of walking. The river corridors and associated green spaces provide excellent local opportunities to encourage more people to get out and walk. There is already one way-marked circular route in the Rhymney Corridor, between Rumney Hill gardens and the Pontprennau link, and potential to identify more, of varying lengths. Priorities 6.5 – Creating a better network Addressed 6.8 – Maximising use of open space 6.9 – Maximising range of activities Benefits Publicising and promoting attractive local opportunities for circular walks will encourage more people to go out and walk. The possibility of a longer circular walk provides a sustainable opportunity for a greater challenge taking in a variety of environments, and could form part of the area’s tourism offer.

Lead CCC/Walking for Health. Organisation Other Friends of Nant Fawr, Cardiff Rural Access for All (RAFA), Cardiff Ramblers, Partners Friends of Howardian, Cardiff Walking for Health , Lisvane Community Council, Graig Protection Society Resources Resources available from CCW/CCC Annual Partnership Programme – to identify walks and provide information.

Timescales 2009/10 Issues Identifying, way-marking, providing information and publicising circular walks that are attractive, easily accessible and well maintained. Some of these are likely to be dependent on development of the main Rhymney and Nant Fawr trails. Progress WFH leads a health walk from the entrance gates of Llanrumney High School and alongside the Rhymney River. This walk is also included in the Walking for health booklet of independent walks. The Ramblers Association also have a number of walks in this area. Next Steps Identify and survey potential circular walks. Meet with organisations that have already identified walks in the area – Graig Protection Society and Lisvane Community Council.

Page 5 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Access and Recreation Project No. AR5

Project Title Promote and encourage access by providing signage, interpretation, and other promotional material, develop nodes of interest, facilities and amenities to help users access and enjoy the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridors. Outline Development of a promotion and branding plan to develop the use and benefits (Including of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Trails for the local community, tourists and outputs) business. Increase awareness of the trail through a range of media that may include leaflets, web pages, events etc. Interpretative material would help to inform and increase awareness of the historic environment and biodiversity.

Background A logo for the Rhymney Trail has already been created and can be seen at various points of the existing trail

Priorities 6.11 – Promotion and Interpretation. Addressed Benefits Raising the profile of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr through increased awareness offers economic benefits for both tourism and business. Increased usage of the trail will also deter existing misuse. Lead CCC Organisation Other SUSTRANS, Friends of Nant Fawr, local businesses, Groundwork, Friends of Partners Howardian, Friends of Coed-y-Felin. Resources CCW Timescales 2008 – 2013 Issues Working on the product and attractions to be marketed. Working with Caerphilly and Newport to identify and promote the routes and attractions in their areas. Agreeing an overall approach to developing a brand for the trail and deciding whether to continue to use the current Rhymney Trail Logo or to produce a new one. Keeping information leaflets, signage etc up-to-date and in place. Progress Some signage was put in place in 2005, but does not cover all of the Rhymney Trail and some has since been damaged or vandalised so would need replacing. Friends of Coed-y-Felin have produced a bi-lingual leaflet and booklet detailing the history and wildlife of the area. Next Steps Review existing signage on Rhymney Trail. Identify locations for signage on both Rhymney and Nant Fawr Trails, as the routes are agreed. Identify appropriate type of signage for different locations. Prepare leaflets for both the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Trails as they are developed. Prepare and install information boards as trails are developed.

Page 6 of 17 River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Biodiversity, Landscape and Historic Environment Project No. BLH1

Project Title Carry out baseline surveys for designated sites. Outline The aim is to survey and co-ordinate collection of data for the Rhymney and Nant (Including Fawr Corridors. This will establish which sites meet local criteria and ensure that outputs) they continue to be taken into account in the Local Development Plan and development proposals. The survey may also identify opportunities for management and enhancement. Background The Council is committed to resurveying 10% of its local sites of importance for nature conservation each year. The local geological society have also been actively surveying and classifying sites of geological interest, with a view to both designating those of importance, proving information to the public, and carrying out management works to some sites. Priorities 6.12 - Collecting and reviewing baseline biodiversity data. Addressed Benefits Better information about the resource will potentially enable better management and enhancement of interesting attractive areas for their own sake and for people to enjoy. Lead CCC Organisation Other CCW, Coed Cymru, Environment Agency, Cardiff Biodiversity Partnership. Partners Resources Resources for survey work identified. Dependent on requirements but partners identified above and CCC/CCW Annual Partnership Programme all provide some resources which could be used for there purposes. Timescales SINC 69 and 70 (salt marsh) surveyed August 2008. SINC 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30, 85 to be surveyed in 2009. Issues Data sharing with other partners that hold information. Making data widely available to interested parties. Progress Many of the SINC’s in the Rhymney Valley and Nant Fawr Corridor have been surveyed within the last 5 years. Next Steps

Page 7 of 17 River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Biodiversity, Landscape and Historic Environment Project No. BLH2

Project Title Undertake surveys to identify opportunities to improve biodiversity along the route of the trails. Outline Identify practical projects that can be completed on the ground that will improve (Including the biodiversity along the trails. outputs) Background The Rhymney and Nant Fawr both have a number of designated sites which contribute greatly to the biodiversity and attractiveness of the river corridors. In order to maximise the valleys’ potential these need to be assessed and opportunities for management and enhancement identified and progressed.

Priorities 6.13 - Managing and enhancing biodiversity assets. Addressed Benefits Long term maintenance and enhancement of designated sites already recognised for their biodiversity value. Lead CCC Organisation Other Friends of Nant Fawr, Friends of Howardian, Friends of Coed-y-Felin. Partners Resources Countryside Council for Wales Annual Partnership Programme, others to be identified if required. Timescales August/September 2008 - 3 periods of half a day along the Rhymney only. ½ day south section ½ day middle section ½ day north section Issues Threat from development proposals. Land Management. Maintenance. Progress Friends groups are regularly surveying their areas and managing biodiversity. Parks services are also carrying out works. Next Steps Survey the Southern end of the Rhymney Valley at the same time as completing SINC survey 69 and 70.

Page 8 of 17 River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Biodiversity, Landscape and Historic Environment Project No. BLH3

Project Title Undertake Landscape Assessment of the area.

Outline LandMap study of Cardiff has been updated to 2003 methodology and quality (Including assessed. The recent study also covers much of the river corridors. The Council outputs) has also employed consultants to identify character areas and identify potential special landscape areas. Background The LandMap methodology has been amended since Cardiff’s LandMap Study was undertaken in 1999. New regional criteria for Special Landscape areas have also been determined. Priorities 6.14 - Managing, enhancing and interpreting the landscape. Addressed Benefits This work has fed into the Local Development Plan including landscape policy development, and proposed Special Landscape Areas. The information provided will help to identify what is special about the river corridor, what is needed to be protected, enhanced and improved. Lead CCW/CCC Organisation Other Partners Resources May be required for management and enhancement work. Timescales 2008 - 2013 Issues Getting consensus on the information provided and the appropriate policy coverage in the LDP. Progress 2007 LandMap study completed, and mostly available to public via CCW’s website. Consultant’s reports on character areas and potential special landscape areas. Policy coverage for landscape and river corridors included in the deposit LDP. Next Steps Respond to LDP consultation representations. Identification of features of importance, and potential management and enhancement works. Information to raise public awareness and enjoyment of features of interest in the river corridors.

Page 9 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Biodiversity, Landscape and Historic Environment Project No. BLH4

Project Title Promoting and interpreting the historic, landscape, geology and biodiversity of the two river corridors. Outline To provide interpretation for the historic, landscape, geology and biodiversity of (Including the two river corridors. outputs) Background There are many areas of interest in the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridors such as Roath Park Conservation Area, Roath Park Lake, Wentloog Levels SSSI and Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoir SSSI. Within the Geological layer in the 2008 Landscape Assessment the Rhymney Valley came out as outstanding. The South Wales Geological Association have been surveying and classifying sites of geological interest. Priorities 6.13 - Managing and enhancing biodiversity assets. Addressed 6.14 - Managing, enhancing and interpreting the landscape. Benefits Increasing local communities’ understanding of the environment that the trails travel through including history, geology, biodiversity and landscape. This provides more interest for the users of the trails and an opportunity to promote other attractions and places of interest linked to the corridor, promoting greater use and respect for the river corridors and their features of interest. Lead CCC Organisation Other CCW, Friends of Nant Fawr, South Wales Geological Association, community Partners groups, Friends of Howardian, Friends of Coed-y-Felin. Resources CCW

Timescales 2009/10 onwards. Issues Nant fawr, and Roath Park have significant amount of interpretation but more could be provided for the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridors outside these areas. Progress The Landscape Study of Cardiff, Cardiff’s Biological database and Geological Association surveys all provide excellent sources of data, and more may be identified. There are already some interpretation boards and information available for areas including: Nant Fawr, Howardian and Coed-y-Felin. Next Steps Identify existing information and additional potential sources.

Page 10 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Planning and Land Use Project No. PLU1

Project Title Encouraging development proposals within the corridor to positively respond to Action Plan aims. Outline Opportunities exist at pre-application stage to make developers aware of Action (Including Plan aims and appropriately respond when submitting planning applications. outputs) Additionally, there will be opportunities to formally comment on submitted plans to ensure developments positively respond to the qualities and characteristics of the river valleys. Background New development proposals will likely come forward on both greenfield and brownfield sites within, and adjacent to, the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Corridors in future years. The Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan provides a useful context to help consider how such developments could positively respond to the qualities and characteristics of the river valleys. Priorities 6.17 - Ensuring new and existing developments enhance and do not harm the Addressed qualities of the valleys. Benefits

Lead CCC - Development Control and Strategic Planning. Organisation Other Private sector developers, Partners Other CC Service Areas e.g. Parks, Highways, Countryside. Resources Provision or funding from development proposals. Timescales As and when development proposals are submitted and built. Issues Ensure Development Control Officers are aware of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan, and the extent of the study area, so that relevant applications, pre application requests, are dealt with appropriately. Ensure LDP policies reflect Action Plan aims to assist development control decision making-process. Progress A range of council officers working on this Action Plan already comment on planning proposals in the area that might impact on the Action Plan. The LDP includes a river corridor policy and identifies the Action Plans as one of the main means of implementing these. Next Steps Meet with Development Control officers to remind and up-date them with regard to the Action Plan aims, and identify relevant current and known future development proposals. Secure appropriate conditions and or developer contributions for planned improvements to the Rhymney and Nant Fawr trails and river corridors as new proposals come forward.

Page 11 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Planning and Land Use Project No. PLU2

Project Title Encouraging proposals for the long term use of Lamby Way tip to respond positively to Action Plan aims. Outline Investigate progress on identifying the future potential of Lamby Way. (Including outputs) Background Lamby Way landfill site is due for closure in 2010. The Rhymney Valley Workshop identified the potential for this site to provide access and recreational/open space. Priorities 6.8 – Maximising use of open spaces. Addressed Benefits New open space in the southern arc of Cardiff accessible to local communities, including Communities First areas, providing access to the countryside and links to the Rhymney trail. Lead CCC Organisation Other TBC Partners Resources TBC Timescales 2009 onwards. Issues Alternative Uses. Resources to develop and maintain open space. Progress Officers from a range of service areas have had an initial meeting to consider the potential and options for the site. Next Steps Engage with other relevant parties to discuss the future use of the site. Investigate options for developing the site in more detail.

Page 12 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Planning and Land Use Project No. PLU3

Project Title Developing appropriate planning policy coverage of relevant issues in the emerging LDP. Outline Ensure the Local Development Plan (LDP) includes an appropriate policy (Including framework that reflects the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan aims. outputs) Background The LDP will be the main planning policy document for the City. It is currently at the deposit stage and it is important that the policies within it continue to reflect the aims of the Action Plan Priorities Providing appropriate planning policy coverage. Addressed Benefits Achieving appropriate policy coverage in the LDP will give additional weight to relevant aims contained in the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan and assist in Development Control negotiations and any future bids for funding. Lead CCC Organisation Other All groups and organisations who may wish to comment on the content of the Partners LDP through the formal consultation stages of the plan. Resources Work on the LDP has been built into the Strategic Planning and Environment Business Plan and the Natural Environment Group Work.

Timescales Ongoing. Issues Safeguard Rhymney and Nant Fawr Trail route and access points in the LDP. Consideration of River Valleys policy in LDP. Consideration of preparation of Supplementary Planning Guidance relating to the river corridors. References to the river corridors on other appropriate policies – e.g. access, landscape and biodiversity. Progress The deposit LDP includes policies for the river corridors and identifies the River Valley Action Plans as the main means of implementing them. Next Steps Respond to any representations from the consultation on the LDP. Use the river valley action plans as a means of implementing a programme of projects to achieve the aims set out in them and the LDP.

Page 13 of 17

River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Planning and Land Use Project No. PLU4

Project Title Working with partners to develop ‘community projects’ within the framework of the Action Plan. Outline To develop local initiatives on the ground which actively involve local groups (Including and/or schools. Projects will be developed up in close consultation with partners outputs) working on the ground with the local community. Background The intention of the Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan is to act as a strategic framework for a series of on-going actions that will bring about improvements to the River Corridors that will benefit local communities. It is considered that projects undertaken with the active involvement of local groups can produce far greater ownership and lasting benefits. Many projects have been implemented in the city with strong community involvement and it is proposed that best practice from these schemes be used to develop high quality projects in the Rhymney and Nant Fawr corridors. Priorities 6.18 – Encouraging community participation and developing links with local Addressed groups. Benefits Projects are more likely to reflect the aspirations and needs of the local community. Additionally, there will be a stronger sense of ownership and hopefully a lasting involvement in enjoying and respecting the completed scheme. The whole process also raises awareness of the environment in general and of the issues relating to the local area in particular. Lead Organisation Other Friends of Nant Fawr, Friends of Howardian, Friends of Coed-y-Felin, Partners Communities First, others might include: Lisvane Community Council, Graig Protection Society, Environment Agency Wales, Keep Wales Tidy (KWT), Groundwork Wales, BTCV, SAFE, BHS, and South East Wales Rivers Trust. Resources CCW/CC Other sources to be identified. Timescales Ongoing. Issues Identification of suitable projects and partners/community groups. Securing resources to deliver and maintain. Ensuring effective and co-ordinated action. Progress Friends of Nant Fawr, Friends of Howardian and Friends of Coed-y-Felin already actively involve the local community in their maintenance and management. Other organisations may also have some projects underway. Next Steps Clarify which organisations/group already have projects underway which would contribute to the Action Plan’s aims, and what they are. Identify any organisations that would like to develop projects in this area.

Page 14 of 17 River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Water Quality, Flooding and Riverbank Issues Project No. WFR1

Project Title Survey the extent of invasive species within the valley and thereafter action the most appropriate ways of removing the invasive species. Outline Setting up and implementing a system for surveying and recording invasive species (Including along the riverbanks and adjacent areas. The aim is to collate existing data, identify gaps in information and establish a system to record the extent of invasive species outputs) comprising of Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed. The second part of WFR1 will bring relevant partners together to agree and thereafter implement the most appropriate treatment(s) for removing invasive species. This should lead to an annual programme of works to remove/control invasive species and monitoring through annual surveys will measure the impact of the works.

Background The Environmental Scrutiny Committee Report in June 2006 assessed how the Council dealt with Japanese Knotweed and recommended that data should be gathered on the spread of knotweed along riverbanks and highways. Existing (non-GIS) records held by Cardiff Harbour Authority (CHA) and Keep Wales Tidy (KWT) will be fed into the new databases. It is hoped that a more strategic approach will be developed to monitor and tackle invasive species along the rivers. (Is there any invasive species control/removal currently taking place on the Nant Fawr or Rhymney)

Priorities 6.21 - Dealing with invasive species. Addressed Benefits Establishing a comprehensive database of the extent of the problem will provide a sound basis for remedial action and a baseline to measure success. If invasive species are left uncontrolled they will continue to spread causing more problems and increasing the cost to control and eradicate. Damage can be caused to flood defences and structures with native species forced out. Additionally, areas of invasive species can cause visual problems, collect, litter, creating a bad image and discourage people from visiting the river valleys. Lead Environment Agency Wales. Organisation Other Keep Wales Tidy (KWT), CC Parks, Friends of Coed-y-Felin, other user Partners groups/volunteers. Resources

Timescales Surveys will be carried out annually feeding into a report summarising extent and trends and partners continue to assess and implement most effective solutions. Issues Need to agree a consistent method of surveying and recording. Information collected and put on GIS should be made available to partners. Partners involved can discuss findings/trends in annual report and be used to inform. the consideration of remedial treatment. Himalayan Balsam needs to be treated before it seeds. Need to keep informed of current best practice regarding treatment options. Monitoring success of treatment operations/ Risk Assessment of non-treatment. Securing resources to strategically tackle the problem along the whole valley.

Progress Cardiff Council recently treated a small area of Japanese Knotweed in Coed-y- Felin. Next Steps Identifying who is responsible for tackling invasive species.

Page 15 of 17 River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Water Quality, Flooding and Riverbank Issues Project No. WFR2

Project Title Identify and respond to flood risk on the River Rhymney.

Outline Undertaking an assessment of current and anticipated future flood risk together (Including with considering a range of policy options to respond to raised issues. outputs) Output: Eastern Valleys Catchment Flood Management Plan.

Background The Environment Agency Wales (EAW) has commenced the process of preparing a Catchment Flood Management Plan for the Eastern Valleys which includes the River Rhymney and the Ebbw. It will be a high-level strategic planning tool that will trigger a process that will agree policies for sustainable flood risk management within the catchment for the next 50-100 years. Priorities 6.23 - Addressing flooding issues. Addressed Benefits Gain an accurate understanding of flood risk. Commence a process to bring all relevant parties together to consider risk and develop policies to address. Lead Environment Agency Wales. Organisation Other CCC Partners Resources EAW are facilitating the initiative.

Timescales The policy units, selected policy and action plans will be going out to consultation in August 2008 with a Draft Plan being signed off by the National Quality Review Team by December 2008. Issues The consultation process provides an opportunity for groups to be informed of key issues and the opportunity to formally respond. Progress Consultation on a draft plan August 2008 for 3 months.

Next Steps EAW and steering group to coordinate consultation on Draft Plan.

Page 16 of 17 River Rhymney and Nant Fawr Action Plan: Water Quality, Flooding and Riverbank Issues Project No. WFR3

Project Title Monitor water quality, identify and address sources of pollutants.

Outline Bringing together data on outfalls entering the River Rhymney and Nant Fawr in (Including Cardiff and assessing if there are any significant ‘diffuse’ sources of pollutants. outputs) Outputs – Creating a GIS layer that can be shared with partners plotting known points of outfalls together with gathering data on nature/volume of discharges at outfalls and via diffuse sources. Analysing data to identify potential actions to address any problems. Background The Environment Agency Wales (EAW) and Welsh WATER (DCWW) have statutory regulatory roles in relation to water quality and drainage. Existing data will be shared to build up a comprehensive picture of the current situations. Priorities 6.22 - Maintaining and enhancing water quality. Addressed Benefits Further improvements to water quality will have significant environmental benefits and directly enhance wildlife interests. Lead Environment Agency Wales. Organisation Welsh Water DCWW. Other CCC Partners South East Wales Rivers Trust Fly Monitoring Group. Resources EA and DCWW currently undertake duties in connection with this project.

Timescales TBC Issues TBC

Progress TBC

Next Steps TBC

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