As part of the Welsh Government ‘Transforming Towns’ the four towns of Blaenau Gwent - Ebbw Vale, Tredegar, Brynmawr and Abertillery, will see plans in place to increase footfall, tackle empty building and ensure they become safe places for residents and visitors.
Blaenau Gwent will benefit from £2.5 million from Welsh Government for redevelopment to help in the transformation. This will go towards projects to maintain and enhance the local environment, increase business occupancy and develop an environment that attracts people to spend time there.
Work is ongoing to engage with town centres across Blaenau Gwent to participate in town centre loans and grant schemes with over £919,000 successful applications to date.
Work on the ‘Placemaking Plans’ is ongoing with the first round of stakeholder engagement completed in Ebbw Vale and initial discussions taking place in Tredegar and Abertillery. Each plan will establish an exciting new vision for the towns that will help attract new investment and overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic. Free Wifi, social and digital media training to businesses will also be provided which is so important to ensure businesses can capitalise on technological developments.
Councillor Dai Davies, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Regeneration and Economic Development commented:
“We are about to commence an exciting new era in the development of our town centres which will give a much needed boost both our communities and economy. Funding from Welsh Government is now available to help project our towns into vibrant places that our residents and visitors will enjoy visiting. We are all looking forward to these refurbishments that will give our businesses and shop owners the best chance possible of future success."
In tandem with the Town Centre First plans is the proposed rail link to Abertillery from the existing Ebbw Vale line, which will not only increase employment and economic prosperity opportunities but also increase town centre footfall.