A “DANGEROUS and unsightly” section of the River Teifi overlooked by Cardigan Castle could be in line for a facelift after years of arguments over who owns the land.

For a number of years Ceredigion County Council and the Welsh Government have disputed ownership of the Strand Quayside, with neither taking responsibility for maintenance. It has been in a state of disrepair, being both unsightly and a danger to public access.

However, it has now been agreed by cabinet that the county council buy the land from Welsh Government for a “nominal fee” in order to lease it to the private sector for development.

At a meeting on Tuesday (July 10), councillors approved the plan to buy the land while simultaneously tendering on a 30-year lease. It will not be bought if no-one wants to lease it.

Lease condition will include undertaking basic renovation working within two years and its use will be linked to tourism and leisure.

Cllr Keith Evans said: “It’s very difficult to say we are going to buy land from someone who doesn’t own it.”

He added he had concerns about the length of the lease, highlighting issues making changes to Aberystwyth’s promenade due to its legal agreement.

A variation of the Crown foreshore lease will also be negotiated at the Cardigan site to include the section of riverbed next to it.

The area is a flood risk and further discussion with the NRW and Welsh Water will be held once the situation is resolved.

The cabinet heard from leader Cllr Ellen ap Gwynn that there was “interest in the site already.”

Cabinet member for economy and regeneration Cllr Rhodri Evans added: “It’s been discussed for several years and is something that may be a way forward in this situation.

“Now that the cabinet has approved the solution proposed by officers, I hope that we can go forward and work proactively with partners to provide residents and visitors with a pleasant riverside feature that will also support Cardigan’s economy.”