The footpath in 2011, before it was closed due to the new development behind the homes. Picture: Google Street View. A CONSULTATION has been launched over plans to reopen a footpath closed to the public eight years ago. The footpath, between numbers 13 and 14, John Fielding Gardens, Llantarnam, was closed due to a new development being built. Torfaen council has now proposed to reopen the footpath to link the community together and provide a shorter, safer journey for school children. The Active Travel Act (2013) requires councils to improve routes and facilities for pedestrians, and aims to make walking or cycling the most attractive option for most shorter journeys.