Torfaen Council has given its support for two new projects in Pontypool and Blaenavon, as part of plans to level up the area.
In Blaenavon, the bid includes funding for a new luxury hotel at the former Ironmasters house, requiring around £13.95 million. This complex would include conference facilities and a spa.
The Pontypool part of the bid is a package which includes a new café being developed at the entrance to the park in Hanbury Road, the redevelopment of St James’ Church (which has fallen into disrepair) and improvements to the civic car park.
Cllr Jo Gauden, executive member for economy, skills and regeneration, said:
“These ambitious plans will go some way to increasing footfall and confidence for future investors in two of our towns, where traders have struggled with a decline in retail for many years.”
Cllr Anthony Hunt, Council Leader, added:
“It is important to ensure the projects for part of a wider strategy for the future of the three towns, all of which have something unique to offer.
I think we are only going to get somewhere by talking our places up.”
These proposals are part of a wider plan for the future of Pontypool, Blaenavon and Cwmbran, that Torfaen Council are putting together and the plans for Cwmbran are expected later this year, due to being put on hold thanks to the sale of Cwmbran Centre.
The cost of the project in Pontypool is thought to be £7.086 million, with £4.836 million being requested from the levelling up fund, whilst the plans for the hotel in Blaenavon will require a bid of £10.949 million. The other £3 million will be provided by the owners of the property.
