A £7.5m scheme to revitalise towns and communities across the Severn Valley to boost the local economy, improve community facilities and create an exciting tourist hub for visitors has been announced by Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones.
Welshpool, Newtown, and Llanidloes are all set to benefit from the scheme to transform town centre streets through improvements to shop fronts and commercial properties as well as new street furniture and landscaping.
Work will also get underway to refurbish disused properties across the Severn Valley to support start ups and attract new businesses while Offa’s Dyke and Abermule business parks will undergo further development.
The three-year scheme is backed with for £3.5m from the Competitiveness European Regional Development Fund and almost £2 million from the Welsh Assembly Government further funding from Powys County Council.
With this latest announcement, the region is benefiting a total investment of over £1.3 billion (EU funds over £650m) through the 2007-2013 Structural Funds programmes.
Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones, said:
“Enhancing the overall appearance of the towns will create an environment which will support existing businesses and attract new investors as well as increase its appeal as a hub for visitors. This scheme will greatly benefit communities through renewed pride, improved facilities and increased employment opportunities which will boost economic prosperity across the region.”
As part of the scheme restoration work will take place to two ancient monuments at the gateway to Welshpool town centre with improved access and parking facilities at the sites.
News of the grant award has been welcomed by Powys County Council Board Member for Regeneration, Cllr Wynne Jones.
“This is fantastic news for the Severn Valley Regeneration project and will take forward two important industrial park developments that will protect and safeguard valuable jobs in the region. It will also provide valuable resources to regenerate town centres in the upper Severn Valley.”
