Our Vision

The Society aims to re-open the whole tunnel to become Europe’s longest cycling/walking tunnel and in winter, the longest anywhere. Providing meaningful jobs in the former mining valleys of South Wales continues to be a huge challenge where house prices remain amongst the lowest in England and Wales. The Society wants to see it become a major tourist attraction with facilities for everyone, young and old including those with disabilities. As well as cycle hire, electric buggies will be provided. For those who want to only go one-way through the tunnel, a ride on a shuttle-bus over the top will offer the bonus of spectacular views. The tunnel would also host sports events – long distance runs and road cycling events as well as mountain biking. The great length of the tunnel itself presents a challenge; just walking from end to end will take over an hour; features of interest on the way must be provided. The middle of the tunnel is dry and mild all year; the many alcoves lend themselves to housing a wide range of interesting exhibits. Other sections have bare walls, long lengths with white spalling, suitable for providing audio-visual displays.

By linking the tunnel with other tourist attractions, South Wales can offer such a range of visitor attractions that people will come for overnight and longer stays, generating jobs in the local economy.