It's a journey that involves a climb down an 11-metre deep air shaft and being pulled through a concrete pipe while lying down on a skateboard. The Rhondda Tunnel doesn't see many visitors apart from the dedicated team behind the scenes but the historic landmark has big plans ahead - with huge community support and political backing for its re-opening.
I recently joined the Rhondda Tunnel Society (RTS) on their monthly visit to the site and found out why locals feel it’s so important the tunnels are re-opened. The group has been working to transform it into a cycling and walking route since 2014.
The plan was given a boost in 2021 when UK transport secretary Grant Shapps agreed to transfer ownership of the tunnel from National Highways to the Welsh Government. But now, architecture company Scott Brownrigg has drawn up proposals to transform the tunnel into a major visitor attraction, with hopes to bring further tourism to the Welsh Valleys. It has been designed alongside digital art consultancy Lumen Art Projects to bring innovative installations that will tell tales of the tunnel's past.
