Economy Minister Edwina Hart today announced a broad range of support to take forward some of the key actions identified to create jobs and stimulate growth in Llandrindod Wells.
The Minister had previously agreed to pilot a business-led approach in Llandrindod Wells, to take forward the work of the original Powys Local Growth Zones Task and Finish Group.
An action plan to address the economic sustainability of the town has been drawn up by a business group led by Justin Baird-Murray with input from a wide range of businesses, individuals and stakeholders in the town.
The report is centred on four key themes with a number of recommendations linked to each of the themes.
Town Centre First – To invest in the quality of the town centre offer, the business environment and key assets
Destination Marketing – Developing and promoting the personality and identity for Llandrindod Wells as a local and visitor destination
Events-led Tourism – To co-ordinate and develop local arts, sporting and transport-related events
Infrastructure & Facilities – To review and improve local infrastructure and facilities.
In a written statement today responding to the report, the Minister announced funding for the establishment of a Town First Group and the appointment of a Town Champion which are seen as key to delivering the action plan.
Mrs Hart said: “ I have carefully considered the actions and am pleased to be responding positively today to a number of these.
“Some of the actions are immediate and will be taken forward in the short term. Others are for the longer term and will require further detailed development work prior to more formal consideration
“Revenue funding will also be made available to help further scope and develop priority projects, with proposals for capital funding being considered on a case by case basis, alongside other priorities.”
The Minister announced that:
Targeted support will be provided by Business Wales for existing businesses and start-ups within the town;
Welsh Government youth enterprise activities will be given enhanced local promotion;
Visit Wales officials will work closely with the Group to ensure Llandrindod Wells features in work already underway on destination management;
Transport projects identified in the plan are being reviewed by officials
Llandrindod Wells has been prioritised for the Superfast Cymru roll out, with work scheduled to start in December 2014.
Work is underway to ensure the town and surrounding areas maximises the opportunity provided by the £150 million Mobile Infrastructure Project which aims to deliver voice and basic data services to mobile notspots.
The Minister commented that the report and its recommendations are wide ranging and implementation will be a matter not only for Welsh Government, but also for the local authority, other partners, as well as private sector businesses and individuals in the town.
Powys County Council has been asked to consider introducing a scheme in targeted parts of the town to restore and enhance shop frontages.
Justin Baird Murray said “ I am delighted that the Minister has responded so positively to our report and look forward to moving forward to implement the many recommendations. It will be important to ensure that businesses and the wider community in Llandrindod are fully involved in this work. Commitment from the local authority and other partners too will be key to ensuring that we all work together to help deliver a sustainable future for the town.”
The Minister concluded by thanking Justin Baird-Murray, members of the group and all who had contributed.