Pontypridd’s major regeneration project isn’t just changing the town for the better – but young people’s lives too.
Students at local schools and universities are being allowed an insight into civil engineering as part of a potential career path for the future by working closely with engineers on the £10.5million scheme.
So not only is the streetscape itself improving with new granite paving, lighting and street furniture, but the town centre regeneration project is also being used to develop budding engineers too.
As part of a Community Benefits Plan agreed with the client Rhondda Cynon Taf Council at the start of the project, the contractor Costain has set out to maximise the opportunity for work experience placements.
Since the commencement of the project in February 2011 five work experience pupils have spent a week with the team experiencing engineering, quantity surveying, design and community and business relations.
In addition, Will Jones a student engineer at Swansea University was taken on as a summer student placement to work on and experience a live construction project.
Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Safer Communities Cllr Paul Cannon said: “Pontypridd Regeneration is a huge project which aims to transform the town centre and create a vibrant and exciting visitor’s destination fit for the 21st century.
“Allowing young people the opportunity to learn from this scheme is part of our commitment to maximize the benefits to the community itself. The work placements have indeed helped inspire, educate and develop the skills of many young people who may consider a career in civil engineering in the future and we are pleased to offer them this opportunity as part of our project.”
John Lee, Project Manager for Costain added, “As a national construction company we have a responsibility to encourage the very best students into the industry and where possible to support their professional development. Also in terms of school placements it is very beneficial for students considering a career in engineering to have an early insight into the industry. All the students who have joined us at Pontypridd have benefited from the experience.”
The £10.5 million project is taking place following the Council’s securing of financial support from the Welsh Government through the European Regional Development Fund and Targeted Match Funding, alongside Council and private sector contributions.
