In a significant boost to local heritage and tourism, the Four Great Highways project in Llangollen has been completed, marking the end of an extensive landscape and accessibility enhancement effort. Funded through a £3.8 million investment from the UK Government, the project was made possible by a collaborative application between Denbighshire County Council and Wrexham County Borough Council, supporting the former Clwyd South Constituency.
The project, which launched earlier this year, focused on transforming the historic “Four Great Highways” of Llangollen, an area rich in Welsh culture and scenic beauty. The goal was to improve both accessibility and visibility of key attractions, offering enhanced wayfinding through upgraded signage and creating a more inviting landscape for residents and visitors alike.
Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport at Denbighshire County Council, expressed satisfaction with the project’s successful completion. “I am happy to hear that works to complete the Four Great Highways project has now come to an end,” he said. “We hope that these improvements to accessibility, interpretation, and signage will help promote Llangollen’s historical sites and encourage more residents and visitors to spend more time there.” Mellor’s words emphasize the community’s hopes that these enhancements will make Llangollen a more accessible destination, drawing in tourists and enriching local engagement with the area’s cultural landmarks.
OBR Construction, the company responsible for carrying out the project, played a crucial role in bringing these improvements to life. This isn’t the first time they have been involved in such a transformative effort; they previously completed another UK Government-funded project at Wenffrwd Nature Reserve. Their expertise in construction and landscape design was pivotal in ensuring that the new improvements met high standards of functionality and visual appeal.
The project’s influence extends beyond Llangollen to the neighboring communities of Llantysilio, Corwen, and surrounding areas, as part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic and cultural development in Denbighshire. Visitors now have clearer paths to follow, making it easier to explore and appreciate the historical sites, natural beauty, and recreational spaces these towns have to offer. The emphasis on wayfinding improvements and accessibility reflects a dedicated approach to preserving and promoting the heritage of North Wales while making it enjoyable for a broader audience.
With the Four Great Highways project complete, Llangollen is set to experience renewed attention as a cultural and tourist hub, attracting both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. The improved infrastructure stands as a testament to the combined efforts of local councils and the UK Government, showcasing a successful investment in community development.
