A £3.2 million EU-backed scheme to revitalise two Pembrokeshire towns, improving community facilities and restoring the rich heritage of the area has been announced by Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones AM.
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Haven Towns Regeneration scheme is aimed at boosting the commercial competitiveness of Pembroke and Pembroke Dock, and making the centres more attractive for investors, shoppers and visitors.
While on a visit to the area on Thursday (20th January), Mr Jones, who is also the Minister for the Economy and Transport, announced a £2.5 million Welsh Assembly Government funding package, which includes support from the European Regional Development Fund and Safer Routes to Communities.
The funding will enable Pembroke Dock’s Pater Hall to receive a makeover as well as new facilities at the Grade II* Listed Garrison Chapel to bring it into full economic use.
Refurbishments will also be made to key historic buildings and a new route for pedestrians and cyclists travelling between Monkton and Pembroke town centre.
While in Pembroke Dock, Mr Jones said: “I am pleased that we are able to make good use of EU funding to create economic opportunities for both communities and businesses in the region. It is an important strand of our Economic Renewal strategy to develop our business environment and make Wales a more attractive place for communities, investors and visitors.”
The work to be carried out at Pater Hall will include a new box office in the lobby with refurbished toilet facilities as well as a new kitchen to serve the main hall.
Improvements to the Garrison Chapel involve building a new extension to house toilet facilities and meeting rooms as well as installing heating which will allow the premises to be occupied.
Deputy Minister for Regeneration, Jocelyn Davies AM, said: “Improving the attractiveness of an area will improve commercial confidence and generate further economic opportunities to build a community in which people can live, work and prosper.”
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor John Allen-Mirehouse said: “The County Council is delighted that the proposals for Pembroke and Pembroke Dock have received the Assembly Government’s support.
“This funding boost will do much to reinvigorate the towns, to give them a new lease of life and help them to adapt to the challenges that lie ahead. The funding announced today should encourage our communities by assuring them that the County Council is working hard to deliver a prosperous economy and an enhanced environment from which all may benefit.”
Don Esmond Chairman of the Pater Hall Trust: “The Trust is delighted with the news of the EU funding approval, as this will enable us to bring the building into the 21st Century.”
Funding for the scheme will also come from The Pater Hall Community Trust, private sources and Pembrokeshire County Council.
