Tree felling at Rhyslyn, Afan Forest Park
The felling of trees infected with larch disease in Rhyslyn, Afan Forest, will soon restart. A new contractor is on board and expected to begin work in the coming weeks.
Delays and damage
Previous delays were due to bad weather, contractor availability, and expired contracts. We understand the frustration these delays have caused for the local community, visitors, and businesses. The tree felling has damaged forest roads and trails, and there are safety concerns with large trees and branches across routes. Trails will be reinstated once felling is complete.
Current Activities
While waiting for the new contract, we've upgraded forest roads and reopened the footbridge from Afan Visitor Centre for access to The River and Railway Walk.
Diversions and Closures
For safety, we have updated trail diversions and closures:
Walking Trails from Rhyslyn Car Park
- Penrhys trail: Closed
- Rhyslyn riverside trail: Closed
Walking Trails from Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre
- River and Railway trail: Open
- Gyfylchi Ridgetop trail: Closed
- Old Parish Road trail: Open
Mountain Bike Trails
- Open: Rookie green, Blue Scar, Penhydd, Afan Bike Park, White’s Level, Blade and Skyline.
- Closed: Rookie blue, W2 Upper Link.
Specific Trail Updates
- Rheilffordd: Closed between Rhyslyn car park and Abercregan. Accessible via tarmac Sustrans trail.
- Y Wal: Start and finish from Afan Visitor Centre. Closures include 6ft Under, Resurrection, Corker, ZigZags, and Stage 4.
- White’s Level, Goodwood and Energy Boardwalks: Closed until replaced as part of a renewal project.
- Skyline: diversions are in place for the following closed trail sections; Bow, and Rhondda.
Larch disease efforts
We are legally required to remove infected larch trees under Welsh Government’s Statutory Plant Health Notice to slow the spread of larch disease.
Help us avoid delays
Please adhere to all diversions and closures for safety and to prevent delays in reopening trails. Ignoring these can halt contractor work and delay trail reinstatement.
Information points
We have updated trailheads and car parks with information on current diversions and closures.
Post-harvesting
Once harvesting is complete, trails will be reinstated, and new viewpoints and re-stocking with broadleaf and mixed conifer trees will improve the woodland.
Further information
For further information, email enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk or call 0300 065 3000.