AMBITIOUS plans to create a special wetlands area on the edge of Carmarthen have taken a step forward.

It is hoped the scheme will include three kilometres for walking and cycling, together with the wetlands.

The proposals — which would provide a natural green corridor link between the town centre and Johnstown — first came to light back in February.

Carmarthenshire Council has since been in talks with a local landowner to purchase land in the area.

At last month's meeting of the council's executive board, members agreed to buy part of Morfa Farm fields to develop the site.

It was agreed in principle that £63,000 would be spent, with the money coming from the Rights of Way and Countryside Capital funding earmarked within the Leisure Capital programme.

However, the sale of the land has yet to be formalised.

The scheme is intended to improve natural green space standards in the town and would also improve safe routes to school and national cycle networks.

Carmarthen mayor Alan Speake said: "It's an excellent scheme with grant funding obtained; a major scheme that will open up large swathes of land alongside the A40 which will be of huge benefit for local people."

"I have already congratulated officers for their financial graft and hard work by obtaining funding for this excellent scheme."

Head of leisure Ian Jones said: "We are considering the development, subject to the possible sale of land."

bruce.sinclair@swwmedia.co.uk