REGIONAL Senedd member Altaf Hussain has praised the work done by Neath Port Talbot Council in regenerating Neath town centre.
Welsh Conservative Dr Hussain met Andrew Collins, Regeneration and Economic Development Manager and Coun Martyn Peters who is the cabinet member for Regeneration and Environment.
They were able to discuss the new projects currently underway including the multi-million pound re-development of the former Tesco store site. The old store and the multi storey car park above it have been cleared and a swimming pool, leisure centre and library plus four new retail units are in the final stages of the building work.
Mr Collins said that before work could start, the council had to build a new multi storey car park and also a replacement store for Wilkinsons which was located within the former Tesco store.
Dr Hussain said: “Mr Collins explained that their aim is to find new ways of bringing people into Neath Town Centre apart from shopping. Having a new multi-purpose leisure and cultural hub will create additional footfall with a spin-off for local shops.
“Although the town has lost some of the High Street chains, which have closed everywhere, it is still attracting independent stores and businesses including restaurants.
“Town centres are going to be about much more than simply shopping in future and re-purposing them in the way that the council is doing is excellent. But they have also been careful to preserve the best of the town’s heritage including the Neath Mechanics Institute with its connections to Alfred Russel Wallace; the Gwyn Hall which has a new lease of life following its total refurbishment and also the lovely park at Victoria Gardens which has also undergone a fabulous restoration which has seen original features like the bandstand reclaiming its Victorian splendour as well as the replacement of the original iron railings which were lost during the war when metal was needed to build battleships!”
He added: “I am very impressed and I look forward to making further visits as the regeneration of the town continues. Of course, the town centre is anchored by its indoor market, which is thriving, and the M&S store opposite which is a massive draw to shoppers.“
Mr Collins also explained that the council has an active heritage and tourism strategy which will be focussing on attractions in the area including Gnoll Country Park, the Rheola Estate near Resolven , the canals and Waterfall Country at Pontneddfechan.