The group behind plans to reopen Wales’ longest disused railway tunnel have been buoyed by encouraging words following the first inspection of the tunnel in more than 40 years.
The Highways Agency Historic Railways Estate contracted construction and engineering company Hammond ECS of Aberdare to undertake the inspection of the tunnel which runs between Blaencwm in the Rhondda Valley and Blaengwynfi in the Afan Valley – alongside the Mines Rescue Service.
The inspection was held across three days last week.
Gaining access through an inspection chamber in Blaencwm, the team ascended 40ft and then had to crawl through a pipe 18 inches wide and 14 foot long to gain access into the tunnel where they carried out a detailed investigation of the structure.
‘Initial reports suggest the condition inside is no worse than it was 40 years ago’
And signs were very positive that the tunnel, which opened in 1890 and closed in 1969 before being covered over in 1979, may yet re-open as what would be the world’s second longest cycle tunnel. In a post on Facebook, Lee Holland, from the Highways Agency Historic Railways Estate, said that: ‘Initial reports suggest the condition inside is no worse than it was 40 years ago.’
Related:Rhondda Tunnel could set a new record as the world's second longest cycle tunnel
His comments were met with encouragement by the Rhondda Tunnel Society, the group behind ambitious plans to reopen the Blaencwm to Blaengwynfi tunnel as a tourist attraction.
“Last week was a rollercoaster of emotions,” said Stephen Mackey, chairman of the Rhondda Tunnel Society.
“I was envious of the first person being lowered down into the tunnel in over 40 years. It was hard to watch. I so wanted to be him. However, Mr Holland’s comments after the inspection has lifted my spirits to the highest heights.”
The group will now patiently await the findings of a report expected in around two weeks.
Have a look inside the Rhondda Tunnel
“The real task now begins with the engineers’ report,” said Stephen. “We are not privvy to any information until the report is compiled and submitted to the Highways Agency Historic Railways Estate.
“Then, and only then, if they feel they want to share and release the information to us, we will know if we can proceed with our project. We can only hope and wait.”
The Rhondda Tunnel Society continues to go from strength to strength
The hugely ambitious project has captured not only the public’s imagination but also politicians from all parties in Wales, winning cross-party support in the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.
Related:The story behind Wales' longest disused tunnel
The Rhondda Tunnel Society continues to go from strength to strength, with more than 2,000 members of its Facebook group and regular meetings being held at locations in the Rhondda and Afan Valleys.
To raise funds, the society will this Friday be staging a Hits From The Musical concert at The Phoenix Theatre in Ton Pentre at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced £6 with all proceeds going towards the society’s funds.
To book tickets ring 01443 425894. Tickets are also available from Topstitch Ystrad, Treorchy Post Office and the Tunnel Pub, Blaengwynfi.
* To find out more about the Rhondda Tunnel Society join the group on Facebook
