A PETITION to have a bike route put in place between Machynlleth and Aberystwyth has almost reached its target of acquiring 1,000 signatures.

The petition, set up by Janoš Vranek, is urging the Welsh Government, Powys County Council and Ceredigion County Council to push forward with plans for a bike route to link the two towns.

So far, the petition has 890 signatures, and Janoš believes if it is supported well enough, the outcome would see an environmentally sustainable link between the areas.

He said: “I think it would safely connect the communities along the route.

“It would provide an environmentally sustainable link between the National Park and the main town in the area in Aberystwyth.

“This would boost tourism and make it much safer to cycle.”

His online petition has received several comments of support from many keen cyclists, who agree that a safe and sustainable route should be the plan.

Janoš added that projects like this one, which promote environmentally-friendly transport, should be prioritised over large-scale road developments.

He explained: “It’s important to invest in the future in a way that protects future generations.

“Massive road building is the opposite of that and we should spend more money on cycle infrastructure projects.

“A lot of potential local cyclists and even ardent cyclists are put off cycling most stretches of the road between Aber and Mach and a cycle path would make it so much safer and more attractive.”

A spokesman for Ceredigion County Council said: "Ceredigion County Council is aware that comments have been received in relation to the recently completed Active Travel Network Map (ATNM) Review consultation indicating that further active travel provision is requested on the A487 north of Talybont, and the Council will be raising this with Welsh Government before the ATNM goes out for a 12-week statutory public consultation later this year."

A Powys Council spokesman said: "The main road between Aberystwyth and Machynlleth is part of the trunk road network and is the responsibility of the Welsh Government. Any investment plans to improve the trunk road network across Wales would be made by the Welsh Government."

The Welsh Government has been contacted for comment.

If you would like to view Janoš’ petition, visit www.change.org/p/welsh-government-complete-the-long-discussed-cycle-path-from-aberystwyth-to-machynlleth