Plans to transform Newtown green spaces, making the town more accessible and enjoyable for all, are to go on display as part of a two public events.
Open Newtown is behind an initiative that has been supported by Big Lottery funding and has already seen it receive land from Powys County Council as part of one of the largest land transfers in the area.
"Open Newtown are delighted to announce that they will be available to share information about their upcoming plans for the enhancement of the town’s green spaces," said James Lander, Community Engagement Officer with Open Newtown.
"As a community interest company they want to involve the people of Newtown in helping them make choices that will really benefit the town centre, townspeople and ensure a promising future for Newtown."
They wish to collect ideas and share information and will be available in person at the following locations:
● Friday, 5th April 9-5pm, Bear Lanes shopping centre
● Monday, 8th April 5-7pm, Newtown High School: They will have a stand at Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Councils ‘town plan’ drop in session.
Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council and Open Newtown signed a 99 year lease for 130 acres of green spaces and Open Newtown are now their trusted partner for managing these spaces.
The project delivery is over the next five years and is partially funded by the Lottery’s Community Asset Transfer Program and officially started on the 1st Jan 2019.
Additional funding has also been secured and some projects are already underway.
A Severn Trent ‘Cash 4 Catchments’ grant has helped them develop a storm drain, filtering the run off rain water through tree roots before entering the river Severn and ensuring a sustainable drainage system to prevent flooding further down the river in neighbouring towns.
A large dipping pond was also created and over 1,300 trees were planted along the river in just two days.
"During the forthcoming year Open Newtown aim to install four bespoke paddle sport access points. Working closely with the council and ecologists they have begun some enhancement and protection works, to promote both wildlife habitat and biodiversity along the River Severn," said Mr Lander.
"Ecological surveys of Trehafren Hill will pave way for an exciting ‘activity hub’ project. Sport Wales have also offered funding for the development of a mountain bike trail, for recreation, training and competition.
"There are also exciting plans to invest significant capital money in partnership with the Town Council to develop a stunning play facility for mixed ages.
"The designs followed consultation with local school children and are currently at initial design phase. The new feature play park is set for completion in the next 12 months."
Share Energy have been funded to help Open Newtown research and pilot sustainable energy production and reduction technologies. This is an 18 month project and they will aim to have workable solutions over the next 18 months.
Welsh Government have a regeneration fund for redevelopment of dilapidated buildings. Open Newtown have submitted a funding application to replace the old Radio Maldwyn building in Newtown.
This will create a new location to help benefit the town centre and guide people into the green spaces for activities and enjoyment. Currently the building is used by local charity Siawns Teg.
Gary Mitchell, project manager for Open Newtown said: ‘It’s a big task, but one not to be missed, we are keen to find out how the townspeople think this could enhance our town, bring benefit to the town centre and become an asset for everyone."
Photo of Newtown ©Owain Betts
