WALKERS will soon be able to enjoy a new scenic stroll along the region’s coastline.

Flintshire Council representatives have revealed work has begun on creating a path in Flint close to the town’s dock area, forming part of the county’s coastal footpath.

The walk will provide increased viewing opportunities on the River Dee, and hopes are high that the new path will bring in more visitors to the Flint area and link-up with neighbouring footpaths to create a lengthy circular walk.

Cllr Tony Sharps, Flintshire’s executive member for environment, said: “We hope this will be a wonderful attraction for everybody and this is a vital link along the coast.

“I believe this will help encourage people to visit the area and enjoy walking along the Dee Foreshore.”

Flintshire Council is using almost £50,000 of grant funding from the Countryside Council for Wales to carry out the extension to the coastal footpath.

The walk will cover former industrial land where the Castle Works site was based for use by Courtaulds.

Cllr Alex Aldridge, of Flint Coleshill ward, has been involved in pushing for the creation of the new path and is delighted to see work getting underway.

“What a great start to the year it is to have this footpath on the way,” he said. “It’s going to be fantastic.

“It offers a tremendous opportunity as for the first time ever people will have a public footpath to walk to the Foreshore through a proper right of way that will be included in the definitive map.

“This will have tremendous benefits to all of us and is a further step in helping link us with coastal communities such as Bagillt and Greenfield.”

Cllr Aldridge, who believes the walk may be in operation by the spring, hopes the opportunity to enjoy scenic views will attract increased visitors to the town.

He added: “There will be two great viewing points created here looking out across the rest of the area. The people who come here will be able to enjoy looking at the River Dee in a safe manner.

“This is good news for both Flint and Flintshire.”

Although primarily intended as a footpath, the route will also be available for use by cyclists.

Cllr Aldridge wishes to thank Cllr Sharps, the Countryside Council for Wales and Flintshire Council for their work in making the new footpath possible.