The exciting community project which aims to transform Blaenau Ffestiniog’s town centre has reached another important milestone as the planning application for the renovation work is submitted.
A formal planning application has now been submitted for the Blaenau Ffestiniog town centre enhancement project which is due to get underway early in 2011.
A public exhibition of the plans will be held on Thursday, 17 June between 2pm and 7pm at the former tourist information centre in Blaenau Ffestiniog. There will also be an opportunity to view plans for lighting the Zig Zag at the town’s rugby club on Wednesday, 16 June between 9pm and 11pm.
Gwynedd Council, in partnership with local regeneration group “Blaenau Ymlaen” and the Welsh Assembly Government, commissioned Miller Research to develop upon the concepts and ideas identified in 2009.
The aim of the work it to create a vibrant shopping street, as well as creating a distinctive visitor destination. So far residents’ opinions have given clear steer to the town centre work with people clearly stating that plans should be based on the area’s unique traditions and heritage.
Eifion Williams from Blaenau Ymlaen said: “We want to realise a massive potential in Blaenau that we all believe exists by rooting the plans firmly in the history and culture of Blaenau Ffestiniog.”
The £4.5 million regeneration project – funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Welsh Assembly Government and Gwynedd Council – was given the green light in November 2009.
Gwynedd Council is eager to canvas opinions and feelings on the idea of lighting the Oakley Incline. The idea of lighting the ZigZag was an idea presented by some of the residents during consultation events in 2009 and on Wednesday, 16 June between 9pm and 11pm in the Blaenau Ffestiniog Rugby Club, people will be able to take a look at what it could look like and have their say about the idea. Opinions will also be sought on the 17th of June in the former tourist information centre between 2pm and 7pm where images and video clips of the trial will also be on display
Pryderi ap Rhisiart, Gwynedd Council’s Regeneration Officer for Ffestiniog and Eifionydd said: “This project is centred around putting Blaenau Ffestiniog back on the map. Many believe that the lighting of the incline could be a way of celebrating the town’s history and culture in a modern, dynamic way, whilst others feel that the feature should be left alone and respected as it is. We look forward to hearing the opinions of local residents.”
Gwynedd Council’s Portfolio Leader for the Economy and Community, Councillor Dewi Lewis added: “Blaenau Ffestiniog is renowned for its rich culture, strong sense of community and dramatic scenery. By securing a £4.5 million regeneration boost for the town, we can move forward in protecting these key elements of Blaenau’s character, and maximise the area’s potential by using its most important assets – its people, language and landscape.
“These exciting plans will provide an opportunity for local residents to have their say, and we look forward to both public events so that we can hear what Blaenau’s people think of the proposals.”
To find out more about the town centre improvement project please phone 01766 512499 where you can speak to a member of the project team or visit the project website: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/blaenauymlaen
