Carmarthen Journal column

“Earth has not anything to show more fair”. What was Wordsworth writing about? A mountain? A lake? A waterfall? None of these. It was the view at dawn from Westminster Bridge.
I was thinking of that recently as I travelled by train from Carmarthen to Swansea. Is there a view more fair in Wales than Llansteffan seen from Ferryside? And taking our cue from Wordsworth, what about the wonderful and attractive pedestrian bridge that links the railway station in Carmarthen with the bus station and the town centre? I have never seen it at dawn, I must admit, but you do not have to go back to the past to find examples of inspiring architecture.
A great many visitors – new and returning – will have enjoyed these sights this summer. The train from Swansea has been full, not least with young families changing trains in Carmarthen on their way to enjoy the beaches of Tenby. Thanks to Welsh Government investment the dualling of the railway line between Gowerton and Llanelli has made that journey much easier.
The west Wales coastline is not just glorious, mind you; it is a potentially invaluable resource. I was delighted, for example, recently, when the Minister for Finance, Jane Hutt, visited the proposed site for Wales’ first full-scale tidal energy generator in Ramsay Sound, Pembrokeshire. The project is being backed by European funding of almost £8million. Meanwhile, further north, the second phase of a multi-million pound sea defence scheme is set to get underway in Borth.
Whether you are from the area, a frequent visitor or exploring this wonderful part of the world for the first time, from the train it is easy to see why Carmarthen Bay is renowned for its beauty. But we should remember, when crossing the Loughor Bridge, to gaze out of the window and enjoy not only the wonderful scenery but also the 21st century engineering that went into the extension and widening of the Bridge. “Dull would he be of soul who could pass by/A sight so touching in its majesty.”