Latest news with #JamiePritchard
South Wales Argus
2 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
New plans to regenerate Caerphilly towns Bargoed, Blackwood
Caerphilly County Borough Council has set out that vision for the two towns in new placemaking plans – strategic documents aimed at increasing prosperity and revitalising high streets. Senior councillors hope Bargoed and Blackwood will experience similar levels of investment as seen in Caerphilly town, where a placemaking plan has been in place for several years and has been linked to projects such as the Ffos Caerffili market. 'Each town is different, but the broad concepts are to develop town centres as places focusing on creating vibrant, sustainable communities,' said Cllr Jamie Pritchard, the council's cabinet member for regeneration. Well-known Newport nightclub applying for changes to layout Young South Wales tennis ace to take on Emma Raducanu in senior Wimbledon debut The local authority said the plans had been developed following engagement with local residents and councillors, and if approved will 'serve as vital frameworks to help secure external funding and guide regeneration efforts over the coming years'. At their heart, placemaking plans set out a 'vision for town centres' which aim to tackle the 'decline in our traditional high streets', the new plan for Bargoed states. The council describes Bargoed as having a 'strong industrial history and culture', but claims 'this cannot continue to define the town' and a 'refreshed modern identity is required'. It has suggested setting up a Business Improvement District (BID) to help local firms collaborate on town-centre improvements, as well as developing a year-round events programme. More town-centre housing, hospitality businesses and public services will also help improve footfall in a place which currently has nearly 9,000 weekly visitors. The council will look to improve connections between the high street, railway station and bus station; and take action to deter 'illegal parking'. Shopfronts will have 'new life' breathed into them, and there will be more planting 'to create pockets of green calm', according to the plan. Ultimately, the town centre 'will become more compact with an active and diverse high street at the heart'. In Blackwood town centre, which currently has around 20,000 weekly visitors, the council notes the high street has 'tough competition' due to the emergence of nearby retail parks and supermarkets. The council's vision is to cement Blackwood's place as the 'town that connects [the] north and south' of the county borough, offering retail, services, leisure and entertainment to its residents and visitors. It wants to develop a 'better quality pedestrian environment' by improving connections between services and public transport; 'repurpose and redevelop' empty buildings; and introduce more public services, including for young people. The council also wants more 'high quality' homes in Blackwood town centre, and plans to improve the look of existing green spaces and notable buildings such as the Miners' Institute. 'We've committed nearly £1 million from our reserves to bring these placemaking plans forward,' said Cllr Pritchard. 'They represent a real opportunity to breathe new life into both towns and attract much-needed investment. 'We want to see positive momentum in all our town centres. With these Placemaking Plans, we're setting the foundations to create opportunity and build stronger, more prosperous communities in Bargoed and Blackwood. I hope there will be a positive reaction from residents towards the new plans.' All councillors will be given a chance to discuss the plans and share their views at a meeting on Tuesday July 1.
South Wales Argus
6 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Cwmcarn Forest Drive set for major upgrade with new plans
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and Caerphilly County Borough Council (CCBC) are seeking proposals to boost the area's recreational appeal. The popular spot currently boasts a picturesque drive, a visitor centre, lodges, play areas and camping facilities. The new plans, part of a collaboration announced in July 2024, intend to bring in a commercial developer to operate, fund, and construct more recreational facilities on the site. Steve Morgan, head of South East Wales Operations for NRW, said: "This is a really exciting opportunity for us to collaborate with CCBC and the private sector, to help build on and enhance the existing recreational features and shape the next chapter of Cwmcarn Forest Drive. "We know how important and well-loved Cwmcarn is to visitors and the local community, who have been fundamental in helping to shape the drive into what we see today." Global real estate advisor Avison Young has been tasked with marketing the opportunity and is now seeking proposals from interested parties. These proposals will need to be submitted via the Sell2Wales portal by midday on August 29. Applicants should demonstrate how their ideas will benefit the community and environment in the long term. Councillor Jamie Pritchard, deputy leader of CCBC, said: "This site offers a unique and exciting opportunity to create a landmark visitor destination for South Wales that will also attract people from across the UK. "With tourism in the region already generating over £134 million annually, this site is perfectly positioned for growth "We want to continue to transform Cwmcarn into a premier recreational hub, enhancing its appeal while driving further economic benefits for the area." The collaboration builds on CCBC's 2022 proposals which formed part of their UK Government 'Levelling Up' fund application.
South Wales Argus
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Risca Beach Party attracted almost 2,000 people this year
Organisers said that across Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8, almost 1,500 of those attendees joined in the fun at the beach party, which was the main attraction. The free event saw the return of the 'giant urban beach', and offered a range of free activities including donkey rides, craft workshops, and an exotic animal experience. Stalls selling hot food, drinks, and crafts lined the park, with community information provided to visitors. Local businesses said they benefitted from the increased footfall, with Risca's high street attracting more attention. Councillor Jamie Pritchard, deputy leader and cabinet member for prosperity, regeneration and climate change at Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: "It's fantastic to see events like this bringing people into our town centres and supporting local businesses. "The community really got behind the Risca Beach Party again this year, and we're proud to keep delivering fun, family-focused events that help our high streets thrive." Sergeant Liam Brown from Gwent Police added: "It was a great turn-out at the annual event, and a great opportunity for myself and the neighbourhood team to speak to residents, traders and visitors, and share some of the work we're doing to keep Risca and the wider community safe." Risca will next host a Food Feastival later in the year, with more details to follow.
South Wales Argus
08-06-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Bro classroom expansion finished!
Caerphilly council has announced the completion of a new extension at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Bro Allta in Ystrad Mynach. The project forms part of the authority's wider commitment to expanding Welsh medium education, aligned with its Welsh in Education Strategic Plan and the Welsh Government's vision of reaching one million Welsh speakers by 2050. The scheme, fully funded through a Welsh Government grant for Welsh medium provision, includes a modern four-classroom extension and the removal of outdated demountable buildings. Staff and pupils outside the new extension at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Bro Allta in Ystrad Mynach. (Image: Caerphilly Council) The development increases the school's capacity by 50 additional places, significantly enhancing opportunities for learners to access high-quality Welsh medium education in the area. Bro Allta is one of five schools across the county borough benefitting from strategic investment aimed at increasing and improving Welsh medium provision. Other projects include developments at YGG Y Castell, Ysgol Ifor Bach, YGG Cwm Derwen and YGG Penalltau. Councillor Jamie Pritchard, Deputy Leader of Council commented: 'The expansion of Ysgol Bro Allta is an example of our Place Shaping programme in action. "This investment has significantly improved the provision we are able to provide to pupils for years to come and helps the council encourage more children to embrace the Welsh language.' Councillor Carol Andrews, Cabinet Member for Education and Communities, said: 'We are incredibly proud of this investment, which reflects our ongoing dedication to the Welsh language and the communities we serve. "The extension at Bro Allta ensures more children can thrive in a Welsh medium environment.' Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Allta in Ystrad Mynach. (Image: NQ) Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Bro Allta continues now with the facilities to support even more young learners on their educational journey. Headteacher Meinir Jones commented: "This fantastic new extension is a real boost for our school. "It allows us to welcome more pupils into a vibrant, supportive environment where the Welsh language and culture are at the heart of everything we do." According to the Welsh Government there are a total of 440 Welsh medium schools in Wales which educate 23% of the total school population in the country. It plans to increase this number under the 2050 plan.
South Wales Argus
16-05-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Caerphilly space for businesses and community initiatives
Y Banc, located in the former Barclays Bank on Cardiff Road, will be the new hub for creative programmes and community-driven projects. The opening is part of a wider initiative by Caerphilly County Borough Council to transform disused spaces across the region. The council has been working with Urban Foundry, specialists in repurposing empty spaces for community and business use, for more than a year. They have already successfully revitalised a location on the High Street in Bargoed, allowing small businesses to test-trade, network, and access support through workshops delivered by industry experts. Following the success in Bargoed, the initiative moved to Ffos Caerffili, where a number of workshops were held in one of the retail shipping containers. The sessions were created to meet the needs of local businesses, covering everything from funding advice to TikTok marketing strategies. Cynefin Caerffili CIC, a creative community-led social enterprise working to transform Caerphilly through collective cultural activity, will be the first to move into Y Banc and director Ceri Davies called Y Banc a 'real game-changer for us'. Jamie Pritchard, deputy leader and cabinet member for prosperity, regeneration, and transformation, said: "Putting empty buildings to use in our town centres and offering opportunities for community-driven projects and businesses to flourish is a great mix and brings new opportunities to the high street. "We want this space to be active and full of ideas." Tara Tarapetian, director of Urban Foundry, said: "It's not just about creating a place to work – it's about creating an environment where people feel empowered to grow their ideas. "Confidence in the high street, increased footfall, and supporting local businesses to grow the economy are all big outcomes." The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will contribute to long-term regeneration efforts in the county. There are plans to further expand the project. To stay up to date with upcoming events at Y Banc or to find out how to get involved, visit the Cynefin Caerffili website.
