Pontardawe: Car Parking Charges and Town Centre Regeneration

Before Christmas I received many representations from traders in Pontardawe expressing concerns regarding the proposed introduction of parking charges in the town. There was great concern that this change could have serious consequences for the economy of the local area. It was also felt that the time allowed for consultation on these plans was insufficient for a full and proper consideration of the issues.

I believed at the time, and continue to do so, that changes in parking arrangements can have substantial effects on the viability of any town centre, all the more so in the case of a relatively small town such as Pontardawe. A decision on this subject should only be taken after robust consultation. For this reason I contacted Steve Phillips, the Chief Executive of Neath Port Talbot Council, and strongly suggested that he consider extending the consultation period to allow the public more time to feedback their analysis of the proposals. I am happy that Mr Phillips agreed to this proposal, and that the consultation produced a large number of public responses.

Alongside specific fears about the changes in parking arrangements, many of you expressed more general concerns about the future of the Pontardawe economy. I am writing to you, now, with good news that I hope will reassure you that both the Welsh Assembly Government and the Council remain committed to regeneration of the Pontardawe region.

Following final approval last Thursday by Neath Port Talbot Council three projects, with a total project value of £ 2.4 m, and partly funded by £600,000 from the Welsh Assembly’s Western Valleys Strategy, will begin over the next six weeks.

Substantial improvements to Herbert Street will create a new public square, as well as installing new paving, lighting and disabled parking. Environmental improvements will continue on the former Motorworld site, creating an attractive gateway to Pontardawe town centre. Finally work will begin on the Cwm Du Glen bridge, providing a fitting landmark for the local area.

In combination these projects, as well as bringing a substantial injection of money into the local economy , will improve the amenities of the town in such a way as to enhance Pontardawe’s place as a shopping and leisure destination. This will in turn provide a much needed boost for local businessmen and women.

I am very glad to be able to report that the Council has recognised that, whilst regeneration work on this scale is being undertaken, it does not make sense to continue an assessment of the possible effects of the introduction of car parking charges. The Council has therefore decided to defer any consideration of car parking charges until after regeneration. A review of parking policies will then be undertaken only when the regeneration projects are completed and their full effect can be assessed.

Gwenda

Statement by Gwenda Thomas AM – A&M Transport

Following the news that A&M Transport of Pontardawe has called a meeting of creditors with a view of going into liquidation, Pontardawe-based Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said:

“I’m very disappointed to learn that A&M Transport has asked to be put into liquidation.

“My immediate priority is to ensure that everything possible that can be done will be done to safeguard the futures of the workforce.

“I’ve been in contact with the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan this morning to see what assistance the Welsh Assembly Government can give to support the employees that will be affected by this decision.

NEATH PORT TALBOT GETS A ‘TIDY’ BOOST

A new £131,964 funding boost from the Labour-led Assembly Government will help make towns like Neath and Pontardawe tidier for all, Labour Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said today.

The Labour-led Assembly Government’s ‘Tidy Towns scheme’ is to provide councils in Wales with £3million of funding for projects which improve the state of our towns and villages, and will give communities the chance to take responsibility for the quality of their local environment.

Keep Wales Tidy gas also been given £1 million of Assembly Government funding to appoint a Tidy Towns Champion in Councils including Neath Port Talbot, who will facilitate projects aimed at improving the quality of the local environment.

GWENDA THOMAS AM said:

“The Tidy Towns scheme is a brilliant idea, which I’m sure will help to make places like Neath and Pontardawe even cleaner, greener and safer places to live.

I am also proud that Welsh Labour, which promised this scheme in last year’s Assembly election, is now delivering it in Government in the Assembly.”

“A poor quality local environment can have a major impact on whether people feel happy or safe in their own community, so I welcome the fact that this funding will be able to fund a wide range of projects which will breathe new life into our towns and villages.

Projects to tackle litter, remove graffiti, create new community gardens or wildlife habitats could all be covered by the Tidy Towns scheme, and I look forward to seeing communities across my constituency taking up the reins to improve their local environment.”