Frustration is mounting in Barry as millions of pounds in potential funds, set to transform the town centre, face delays. With a £20m boost on the horizon through the long-term plan for towns fund, Barry was poised to receive £2m payments annually over a 10-year span. The funding aimed to revitalise the high street, combat anti-social behaviour, and enhance connectivity.
However, the UK Government recently announced a suspension of the decision-making process for the fund, pending post-election considerations. Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Buttrills ward member, Cllr Ian Johnson, expressed disappointment at the delay, highlighting the urgent need for investment in areas like Holton Road and the overall town centre in Barry.
The council, in collaboration with various stakeholders, had prepared a strategy to utilise the funds. The proposed projects in Barry await approval from the UK Government to kickstart the necessary regeneration efforts. Vale of Glamorgan Council’s deputy leader, Cllr Bronwen Brooks, assured that work towards securing funding and implementing projects remains ongoing.
In a separate development, aside from the towns fund, Barry had secured £20m in levelling up funding for the creation of a vibrant public space in Barry Docks. Despite the setback in the release of the towns fund, the preparation for these transformational projects continues under the guidance of both local and national authorities.
The community-led Barry Partnership, established earlier to oversee the fund’s utilisation, has prepared a robust vision for the town’s development awaiting UK Government approval. The council’s commitment to various regeneration efforts in Barry showcases a concerted effort to enhance the town’s appeal and functionality.
The delay underscores a frustrating period for local officials and residents eager to witness the promised improvements in Barry’s town centre. As stakeholders await the green light, work on tidying the town centre and collaborating with multiple agencies remains in progress to prepare for the much-anticipated transformation.