A large area of central Barry could get a massive facelift as part of a 12-year neighbourhood renewal initiative being considered by the Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet next Friday, April 28.
Following similar major in Cadoxton and central Penarth, the council has now turned its sights on Barry’s Castleland ward. There are around 1,450 properties in the designated area, between Holton Road to the north and Dock View Road to the south.
Funding for the programme, which covers housing, town centre, community and environmental improvements, will come from the council’s capital reserves and through annual bids to the Welsh Assembly, who have already agreed renewal area money of £1.35m in the current financial year.
Much of the work, which includes comprehensive improvements to house interiors, exteriors and surrounding areas, is tackled in group repair schemes of up to 20 homes.
Cabinet member for housing and community safety Councillor Paul Church said: “This is another ambitious, long-term project which has the potential to dramatically improve housing conditions, the local environment and commerce in this neighbourhood. Similar schemes at Cadoxton and the St Augustine’s area of Penarth have been a great success.”
As part of the scheme, the council will establish an office and advice centre for the local community and their partner agencies. Council leader Cllr Gordon Kemp said: “The council will work with residents, businesses, agencies and possible funders to deliver a wide range of improvements.
“We feel this is the most effective way of improving living conditions in this area. Following initial consultations, I understand the residents are very supportive and enthusiastic of the proposals.”
Vale of Glamorgan council says the scheme’s overall objectives are:
- To secure a good standard of housing;
- To achieve an overall improvement of the environment, including open space, parks and plays areas, roads and alleyways;
- To promote a wide range of investment and improvements throughout the length of Holton Road, and
- To implement and sustain a range of new or developed community or social initiatives.
Cllr Kemp said: “The council is committed to reversing the decline of the town centre and surrounding residential area and, while these initiatives present a series of challenges and opportunities, they will bring about a fundamental change for the better and a new confidence.”
