Almost £5m Welsh Government investment in regeneration projects brings Christmas cheer to the Tramshed

The capital investment will go to projects across Wales, identified by local authorities, which aim to maximise their economic impact and help to support regeneration in Welsh towns. The projects have strong links to wider Welsh Government objectives, including supporting people into employment, training and skills development, health and well-being and tackling poverty.

Minister Rebecca Evans AM said: 

“These projects will help towards work to regenerate towns across Wales, and will be used for a range of projects, from clearing derelict buildings in Rhyl for redevelopment, to refurbish old buildings to create housing in Swansea.

“The Tramshed is a great example of how Welsh Government support can help to kickstart regeneration. This new investment will help local councils to regenerate areas, in line with our wider priorities, such as supporting people into employment or training, health and well-being, and tackling poverty.

“Communities across Wales will feel the benefit of this money, and I look forward to seeing how these projects make a difference to people’s lives.”

Some of the projects include:

• £1m towards the restoration of the Grade II* listed Brecknock Museum and Art Gallery and the construction of adjacent contemporary new building which will house the new Brecon library, rooms for education, community and conference use and retail areas for local produce
• Swansea Council will receive £300,000 to support the refurbishment of three properties, to create 10 housing units in Swansea city centre, and to create commercial floor space in three currently vacant premises
• In Shotton, £162,000 of investment will be used to help purchase and redevelop the former Tata Steel Sports and Social Club. RegenA partnership led by Care and Repair North Wales will see the complex used to provide training, health support, sports and other services, focused on the well-being of local people
• £80,000 to help the fund the conversion of an old college building in Barry to create the BSC Squared Business Centre, a dedicated business start up and incubator space to support micro businesses and SMEs looking to establish themselves and grow locally.

The Tramshed received £500,000 of support through the Welsh Government’s £20m Town Centre Loans Fund, which is helping to bring underused sites in town centres back to life. Once loans are repaid, the money is used again to fund new loans.

250 jobs were created or safeguarded as part of the Tramshed project, which has created 18,500 square feet of conference space as well as space for businesses to develop and a place for community events to take place. The area has seen a significant increase in footfall as a result of the project.