We have secured planning permission for Conwy County Borough Council to replace the footbridge across the River Conwy in Betws-y-Coed and upgrade the surrounding public right of way. The site sits within the stunning Eryri National Park in Snowdonia and is adjacent to the Betws-y-Coed Conservation Area, so careful planning and design were essential.
The existing footbridge had been closed due to safety concerns and needed replacing to restore the active travel link. With funding secured by Conwy Council to improve active travel, this project forms part of a wider investment in the Coast to Valley Active Travel Route. We undertook an EIA screening, and the Local Planning Authority confirmed that no full Environmental Impact Assessment was required. We also prepared a strong case to justify development within a National Park, highlighting the benefits of improving active travel, reducing reliance on cars, and promoting local tourism.
Heritage and landscape were key considerations. A heritage assessment confirmed there would be no harm to the adjacent conservation area or nearby listed building, while a landscape assessment demonstrated that the development would not negatively impact the surrounding environment. Impacts on trees were carefully reviewed. We advised on mitigation measures to minimise tree loss and on the number of replacement trees required under planning policy.
Given the ecological sensitivity of the site, our Ecology team carried out surveys for bats, water voles, otters, great crested newts, barn owls, invasive species, and hedgerows. We advised on the design and proposed mitigation measures to ensure the development met planning requirements. We also prepared a Green Infrastructure Statement to demonstrate that a net benefit for biodiversity has been achieved, in line with Welsh planning policy. Our Landscape Design team developed a detailed planting plan along the active travel route to replace lost vegetation and comply with policy requirements.
During the planning process, we addressed concerns raised by Natural Resources Wales, including the impact of proposed lighting on bats and the local landscape character. The application was approved in March 2025 and construction is now underway. We’re looking forward to seeing the new bridge reconnect the community, support sustainable travel, and enhance this beautiful part of Snowdonia.
