AM Visits Riverside Centre

Earlier this month I was delighted to have a chance to visit the Riverside Centre in Pontardawe and meet Roger Dutton (pictured), the project development manager of the site. This community space has recently been wonderfully restored and renovated by Arena Pontardawe. It is already hosting an imaginative schedule of workshops, classes and activities, with big plans for future expansion.

I would like to congratulate Arena Pontardawe on securing National Lottery and Y Gronfa Wledig funding for the project. With funding secured, with an excellent management team in place, and with the support of the local community I know this new venue is going to be a real success and make a genuine contribution to the economic regeneration of Pontardawe

Press Release: PONTARDAWE COMMUNITY PROJECT CONGRATULATED ON £300,000 FUNDING BOOST

A community project in Pontardawe aimed at building a small show arena has been congratulated by Neath AM Gwenda Thomas after it was awarded a £300,000 funding boost from the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government.

Arena Pontardawe is one of 49 community projects across Wales to share in more than £5.5 million funding from the Assembly Government’s Community Facilities and Activities Grant.

The scheme supports the creation of new facilities and services and promote the regeneration of communities.

Gwenda Thomas, Labour Assembly Member for Neath said:

“This is a significant funding boost for a project, which will make a real difference to Pontardawe and the Swansea Valley.

“I know that a lot of hard work has been put in by those involved with Arena Pontardawe, and I want to congratulate all those involved in making this funding boost possible.

The group’s aim is to build a small show arena, seating around 300 people and accommodating flexi space for both businesses and training groups. It will be compliant with the Disability discrimination act, providing increased educational opportunities and training courses. It will create bonds between diverse groups encouraging social interaction and a sense of belonging.

Gwenda added:

"The funding announced today is part of the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government’s agenda of breathing new life into communities such Pontardawe. We want to work with local organisations to regenerate our communities, improve services and upgrade facilities.

“One of our greatest strengths in the Swansea Valley is our shared sense of community spirit, and I am confident that this latest boost to the area will help to build this and our confidence as a community.”