Pontypridd’s traders are set to benefit from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s securing of a £10.5 million funding package for the regeneration of the town centre.
The cash injection has come from the Welsh Assembly Government through the European Regional Development Fund and Targeted Match Funding, plus the Councils own financial resources, and the private sector.
One of the major components of the project is the Pontypridd Townscape Enhancement Programme, which provides the opportunity for commercial property owners in the town to take advantage of a new funding scheme with a contribution of up to 70% towards property enhancements potentially available.
The Townscape Enhancement Programme is seen as an integral element of the physical regeneration of Pontypridd town centre, delivering improvements to the fabric of properties and the townscape.
Renovation and improvement works to buildings will be supported, within the commercial core of Pontypridd town centre. The scheme will enhance commercial properties through high quality improvements, creating an attractive townscape, and instilling a strong sense of “place” for shoppers, residents and business people alike.
Creating a visually attractive town centre is proposed to increase confidence in the town 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.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Safer Communities Cllr Paul Cannon said: “Pontypridd town centre has an outstanding architectural quality which is recognised by the designation of Conservation areas within the town.
“The opportunity to enhance Pontypridd’s townscape provides a unique opportunity to have an architecturally exemplar town.’
“The investment programme in Pontypridd is the largest single investment this town or any other in Rhondda Cynon Taf has ever seen and we are looking forward to creating a vibrant shopping centre for present and future generations to enjoy.”
Alongside improvements to Pontypridd’s townscape significant regeneration of the public realm will be undertaken. Design proposals include a complete refurbishment of the public realm, with new paving and road surface materials creating an entirely new vibrant image of the town centre.
Through a succession of phased works, regeneration improvements will stretch the length of Taff Street, Market Street, Mill Street and Church Street. The proposed works include new paving, road surfacing, street furniture, signage, lighting and distinctive features.
Paved areas in the town will also be widened, creating a more desirable town centre which people can use and enjoy. Additionally key public spaces will be developed which will ensure significant places such as Penuel square fountain are enhanced and maintained as areas of focus.
Commercial property owners and tennants 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]
