A town in Wales has been dethroned as the location of the world’s steepest street, with the title now residing in New Zealand, 10,000 miles away. Dunedin, situated on New Zealand’s South Island, previously held the record for Baldwin Street before being surpassed by Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech, Gwynedd, due to its steeper incline. However, after a comprehensive review of both streets’ gradients, the Welsh town has been demoted to second place globally.
Following initial celebrations when Ffordd Pen Llech secured the accolade, a recent analysis revealed that Baldwin Street actually has a sharper gradient of 34.8%, compared to Ffordd Pen Llech’s 28.6%. Toby Stoff, who led the challenge, expressed gratitude to Guinness World Records for considering their findings and emphasized the technical nature of the gradient issue.
Stoff also conveyed goodwill towards the residents of Harlech, stating that there were no hard feelings and commending the town as a wonderful heritage location with friendly people. Gwyn Headley, the leader of Harlech’s campaign, graciously congratulated Baldwin Street on reclaiming the record under the new assessment, despite his clear disappointment.
Both Baldwin Street in New Zealand and Ffordd Pen Llech in Wales maintain their extreme steepness, with Baldwin Street attributed to poor planning by British colonists, resulting in streets constructed on steep hillsides with properties built at tilted angles. Baldwin Street embraces its fame by hosting various charity events annually.
Residents of Baldwin Street, like Olivia, express pride in their street’s status as the steepest in the world and share their experiences of conquering its challenging ascent. Ffordd Pen Llech, with its daunting gradient of 28.6% and warning signs cautioning against motor vehicles, attracts cyclists seeking the thrill of the climb to the summit.
Due to its steepness, parts of Ffordd Pen Llech restrict vehicle access, requiring visitors to navigate some sections on foot. Identified as one of Britain’s most hazardous roads, Ffordd Pen Llech poses notable risks to drivers and passengers, as highlighted by LeaseCar.uk. The street’s extreme gradient necessitates careful consideration for those attempting the ascent.