A bit of Old Aberdare Tony Williams reports today that it looks like very good news for this tunnel. By sheer coincidence, I was at Abernant at 2:30 today and witnessed a large gathering of people and vehicles. Apparently, they were representatives from civil engineering companies invited to provide tenders for the work
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council is seeking a design team for the transformation of the Abernant Tunnel into a new active travel route.
Thanks to Tim O’keefe for sharing this.
Residents in Merthyr Tydfil are calling for the reopening of the historic Abernant Tunnel as a key part of a new active travel route. The tunnel, which once linked Merthyr Tydfil to Neath before closing in 1962, could soon be transformed into a pedestrian and cycle path under plans led by Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council.
Back in 2024, the council announced a search for a design team to explore the feasibility of refurbishing the disused 2.29km-long railway tunnel. The winning team will be awarded a £180,000 contract to conduct a study assessing options for the project, which aims to provide a safer, more direct route for cyclists and walkers between Merthyr and Aberdare.
Many local residents have long supported the idea of reopening the tunnel, arguing that it would ease traffic congestion, provide a more sustainable transport link, and boost tourism. The proposed active travel route would connect existing cycling and walking paths, including the Taff Trail and Cynon Trail, and could also benefit visitors to nearby attractions such as Bike Park Wales.
The tunnel’s western entrance is located on land owned by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, while the eastern portal is on privately owned land. However, Merthyr Tydfil Council has already secured a 2m-wide right of way to provide access to the tunnel from the Taff Trail.
A previous economic assessment highlighted the potential benefits of reopening the tunnel, including increased tourism, improved commuting options, and positive impacts on local businesses. With cycling and active travel routes proving successful in other parts of the UK, campaigners believe the Abernant Tunnel could become a vital link for the region.
If the project goes ahead, the design phase is expected to begin in late 2025, with construction work starting in 2026. The full design and build process could take until 2029 or 2030 to complete.
Residents keen to see progress on the scheme are urging the council to push ahead with the plans, ensuring the tunnel can once again serve as an important connection between communities.
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Part of the Railway embankment on the railway track from Abernant Station to the Cwmbach Railway tunnel