Posted on Monday 20th February 2012
Aberdare’s commercial properties are directly benefiting from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s securing of a £7.7 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, Heads of the Valleys programme and Targeted Match Funding, plus the Councils own financial resources, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Cadw and private sector contributions.
Two of the major components of the project are the Aberdare Townscape Enhancement Programme (TEP) and the Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) which provide the opportunity for commercial property owners in the town to take advantage of a new funding scheme towards property improvements.
To date more than 70 commercial property owners have contacted the Aberdare Town Centre Regeneration Team to discuss how refurbishment works through the Townscape Enhancement Programme can improve their business premises for the benefit of the wider economy.
The programme is seen as an integral element of the physical regeneration of Aberdare town centre, delivering improvements to the fabric of properties and enhancing the streetscape.
It allows commercial property owners the opportunity to apply for contributions of up to 70% towards renovation and improvement works to buildings that are not eligible for the THI funding.
Renovation and improvement works to buildings will be supported, within the commercial core of Aberdare 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: ““The opportunity to enhance Aberdare’s townscape provides a unique opportunity to have an architecturally exemplar town.
“The investment programme in Aberdare is the largest single investment it has ever seen and we are looking forward to creating a vibrant shopping centre for present and future generations to enjoy.”
Alongside improvements to Aberdare’s townscape significant regeneration of the public realm is currently being undertaken with new paving and road surface materials creating an entirely new vibrant image of the town centre.
The works include new paving, road surfacing, street furniture, signage, lighting and distinctive features.
Commercial property owners and tenants who wish to enquire about the financial opportunities available through the Townscape Enhancement Programme can obtain further details by phoning the Council’s Regeneration and Planning Division on 0143 495150 or email Aberdare@rctcbc.gov.uk|. For further details visit www.myaberdare.com|