A PICTURESQUE footpath has been reopened to the public.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) have confirmed the reopening of the Afon Dyfrdwy footpath in Bala. 

This follows major works to strengthen the reservoir embankment and protect Bala from extreme weather.

Works are still continuing along the lakeshore footpath from Bala Rugby Club to Penllyn Leisure Centre, which will remain closed until next spring.

During the footpath closures, a number of landscaping improvements have been made, including improved accessibility, footpath widening and improved seating areas.

A number of local representatives attended an opening ceremony for the Afon Dyfrdwy footpath.

"We would like to thank members of the public for their continued support and understanding during this time," said an NRW spokesperson.

Work started in January to ensure Llyn Tegid can continue to withstand extreme weather events now and in the future, while also bringing environmental and recreational enhancements to the area.

These include better footpaths for people of all abilities, new seating areas, restored habitats, new areas of wildflower meadows and resources for environmental education.

READ MORE: NRW work at Bala lake has reached the halfway stage

Work to strengthen the lake’s embankments and replace more than 1km of stone protection has been taking place, alongside facilitation works to accommodate the possible future expansion of Bala Lake Railway.

The strengthening work has involved the removal of 300 self-seeded trees which were weakening the lakeshore embankment and the first phase of tree planting was part of NRW's commitment to plant three trees locally for every tree we have had to remove.

The work is being undertaken by contractors William Hughes Civil Engineering and by landscape contractor Ground Control, with the works continuing throughout the remainder of 2022.

Martin Cox, head of North West Wales operations for Natural Resources Wales, said: “The lake’s embankments give vital protection from flooding to the town of Bala and we have a responsibility to make sure the town remains safe.

“Local people have fed into our project planning over the last few years and their input, especially about environmental and recreation opportunities, is being implemented alongside the reservoir safety works.

“We are continuing to update the community regularly about our progress and are undertaking these essential works as efficiently as possible while ensuring we keep the public safe and uphold stringent safety standards at all times."