An idea from a neighbourhood watch scheme in the St Martins area of Caerphilly has led to a 110 metre pathway being installed next to a busy road. 

The work has been carried out as part of Linc Cymru’s community benefits programme. Contractors working for the registered social landlord support local projects and groups in areas where they’re building new homes. 

P&P Building and Roofing Contractors recently transformed the former sheltered housing scheme St. Christopher's Drive into eight new apartments. 

Shelly Leonard, social value officer at Linc, said: “P&P were keen to help with some extra work in this community to make it a better place for residents. I approached the local neigbourhood watch group and asked them for suggestions.  

“They told us they would love a path from the bus stop near Moat House car park to the garages in front of Winston Osborne House. It’s an uneven grassed route so this would provide a durable walkway and prevent pedestrians having to walk on the road.  

“Thanks to our community benefits fund we were able to work with P&P to buy the materials and install these recycled polymer pavers that have no negative impact on the environment. Grass can grow through them, water can drain freely, and no excavation work was needed before they were fitted.  

“And thanks to Cllr Stephen Kent, St Martins Ward, for his help in liasing with the council to get this go-ahead for the project.” 

Rob Barnes, from St. Martins Estate Neighbourhood Watch, said: “Rob Barnes, from St. Martins Estate Neighbourhood Watch, said: “This new path was much needed by the estate residents and the local community. It is something we have tried to get for many years. 

It has provided a safe route for the many people, including parents with prams and older residents, to enable them to walk off the roadway, in their transit through the estate and to their walk through to Caerphilly. 

“Many thanks to Shelly Leonard and Cllr Stephen Kent, for their hard work in making it happen.”