WIREDGOV

The 870 mile path not only won the Exemplary Rural Planning category but also scooped the top prize, the Silver Jubilee Cup.  

Minister for Culture and Sport, John Griffiths said,

"This is fantastic news and thoroughly deserved. The number of visitors and local people using the Pat in its first year have exceeded expectation as walkers flock to enjoy the stunning Welsh coastline. Whether you’re a keen walker or a family looking for a place to stretch your legs, walking the path is an excellent way of improving health.

"The path has also brought great economic benefits to Wales especially in coastal areas. I hope with the summer holidays upon us, this official recognition will encourage even more people to experience the best that Wales has to offer."

Minister for the Economy, Science and Transport, Edwina Hart, said:

"The Welsh coast is one of our most important tourism assets.  The Wales Coast Path has already provided a £16m boost to the Welsh economy and has been voted by the Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 as the greatest region on earth to visit in 2012. This latest award is excellent news  for the the Wales Coast path and for Wales."

The RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence were established to celebrate the contribution that planners and planning make to society, to highlight exceptional examples of planning and to inspire others to achieve the same high standards

The Wales Coast Path, a Welsh Government initiative, has been delivered in  partnership withNatural Resources Wales, 16 local authorities and two National Parks. It was funded jointly by the Welsh Government and the European Regional Development Fund.