A Pontypridd businessman has received the largest funding allocation available of £100,000 to refurbish his premises for two new businesses which will bring even more jobs to the town centre thanks to Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s pioneering regeneration scheme.
The extensive property on High Street is owned by successful entrepreneur Philip Worthing, the former Managing Director and owner of Abacus Recruitment Agency which was formed in 1999 and had more than 450 workers on its books.
Mr Worthing’s property has been vacant for a significant period, awaiting interest from potential tenants. When he heard from fellow businesspeople how successful the Council’s Townscape Enhancement Programme was to refurbish commercial properties, he made an application which resulted in him receiving £100,000 , a contribution of almost 70% towards the over all cost of the works.
Working closely with the Council’s Regeneration and Planning Team, the new business premises will be totally renovated and upgraded throughout.
The Townscape Enhancement Programme is a key element to the Council’s £10.5million regeneration scheme of Pontypridd, which has greatly impressed Mr Worthing himself.
“Pontypridd is a thriving town thanks to Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. If other councils took the same attitude with regards regeneration projects then they would have a thriving town like Pontypridd too,” he explained.
Contractors Admiral Construction Design Limited are now totally refurbishing the property which is being re-plastered, painted, with a new roof, windows and entire shop front. The two new businesses will occupy the upper and lower floor.
“I heard how good the Townscape Enhancement Programme was from fellow property owners in the town centre and I must say that Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has been superb in their delivery,” he said.
“Officers were incredibly supportive and helped me every step of the way, making the process very easy indeed. It is a first-class project and I would encourage others to take up the opportunity while it’s there.
“Along with Admiral Construction, another professional outfit who are most accommodating and cost effective, I must say I’m delighted with the scheme and plan to have the property completed and ready for business by the end of February.”
Through the Townscape Enhancement Programme, funding of up to 70% is being made available to commercial property owners. This is to enhance their properties through high quality improvements, creating an attractive townscape, and instilling a strong sense of pride and identity of Pontypridd for shoppers, residents and business people alike.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Safer Communities Cllr Paul Cannon explained: “The opportunity to enhance Pontypridd’s townscape is one not to be missed and I would encourage many more property owners to apply for the funding support as soon as possible. Together we can recreate the very image of Pontypridd for all those who work, visit and shop in the town centre.
“Council officers have visited over seventy interested properties, with over a dozen known to be working on detailed plans. This level of interest and cooperation from the private sector in the current economic climate is a real indication that Pontypridd is on the up.
“Creating a visually attractive town centre will increase confidence in Pontypridd and encourage private sector investment. This in turn should generate local employment opportunities, increase the amount of visitors, create stronger and more diverse businesses, and foster a vibrant and sustainable economic centre.”
Commercial property owners and tenants who wish to enquire about the financial opportunities available through the Townscape Enhancement Programme can obtain further details by phoning 01443 495170 or by emailing [email protected].
The £10.5 million Pontypridd Regeneration project is taking place following the council securing financial support from the Welsh Government through the European Regional Development Fund and Targeted Match Funding, alongside council and private sector contributions.
For details of the Pontypridd Regeneration Scheme, visit www.loveponty.co.uk
