This afternoon, Rhuthun/Ruthin's
most intriguing thoroughfare reopened.
The county council
closed the Cunning Green in May 2013, owing to safety concerns. This was because a section of the castle wall had collapsed and other parts were deemed unsafe. The County Council was not responsible for the walls themselves but was for the safety of those who used the path. There followed the long search for adequate funding to be able to make the wall safe. In the event, the council brokered a deal that included 50 per cent funding from the rural development agency, Cadwyn Clwyd, with the other 50 per cent from two landowners, Ruthin Castle and Bob Costain.
The wall at the bottom of the Cunning Green was rebuilt, following the collapse. The castellations at the top were treated, as was a bulge in the wall in the middle. The footpath was resurfaced at the bottom, where much of the work had taken place.
Patching is all that the owners and Cadwyn Clwyd could afford. There remains much more work still to do on the walls and, to this effect, ivy has already been removed and work scoped. Structural engineers have nevertheless deemed the walls safe—for the time being. It is only a matter of time, however, before a more permanent solution will need to be applied. This could be several years away. In the meantime, Ruthinians can again enjoy the quiet solitude of the Cunning Green, with its unique view of Ruthin over Clwyd Street.
Where, though, were the benches? One had to be removed owing to a bulge in the wall but neither are in situ, now. For some, the Cunning Green is a challenge. Rumour has it that t police requested that the benches be taken away. This is to stop youths using them to take drugs or to through things. Why should others have to suffer because of (a) young people and (b) the police's own shortage in officers?
In spite of that, we say, welcome back, old friend!
