Tramroads Project
Historic tramroads are important in allowing us to understand the transport networks created and utilised to sustain former industries, typically linking sources of raw materials, primary and secondary processing sites and onwards to other forms of transportation. These tramroads are now well used footpaths and are a significant part of the rich heritage of our beautiful National Park.
In 2021, the Park Society entered into a collaborative project with the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust (now Heneb), and Cadw focused on improving our knowledge and understanding of the historic tramroads with a view to enhance the Historic Environment Record and where appropriate take steps to protect them for future generations.
So far, we have:
- Carried out an extensive desk-based exercise to identify all the tramroads within the confines of the National Park;
- Developed a surveying methodology and data capture process;
- Established role profiles for volunteers and developed risk assessments;
- Secured a grant, in December 2024, from BBNPA’s Sustainable Development Fund; and
- Commissioned a professional Archaeologist to support the project.
Since the start of 2025 we are:
- Training volunteers in surveying methodology and use of hand-held data collection app;
- Training volunteers how to map the routes of historic tramroads in readiness for survey work;
- Carrying out a survey of Brinore Tramroad to enhance the wealth of information on that tramroad; and
- Mapping of other tramroads in readiness for survey work.
Where appropriate we will develop cases to seek protection of historic features and selected sections of tramroad.
We are committed to sharing our work with everyone who lives, works in or visits the park and beyond. Please keep an eye on this webpage and our Facebook page for updates, events and opportunities.
Volunteering to be part of the Tramroads Project is open to everyone.
As a volunteer, you will be covered under the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority’s Volunteer Framework. Whether your interests are in working in a team surveying the tramroads or in helping to write scheduling cases to put before Cadw then there is a place for you on the project.
For more information on the Tramroads Project or to enquire about volunteering, please write to Roy Manning on [email protected]
Information on Countryside Access for Tramroads volunteers is available here.
