Riverside project to put green space into Green Park
The transformation of the old Green Park industrial area in Port Talbot is underway with the creation of a new Riverside Walk and Park.
Artists impression of Riverside Walk and Park
The first phase of the imaginative scheme is expected to be complete by April and the second phase will be launched later in the year.
The project is part of the extensive Vibrant and Viable Places Regeneration Programme in Port Talbot which will see over £30million invested in a wide range of schemes.
Neath Port Talbot Council secured £10.1million funding from the Welsh Government’s Vibrant and Viable Places (VVP) programme to undertake a number of Regeneration projects in the town centre, working alongside key partners.
The aim of the programme is to create more diversified areas that encourage people to live and work in town centres, and not focus solely on its retail provision.
The work to create Riverside Walk and Park is being carried out by contractors Afan Landscapes, a local company which actually started life in the very area they are now improving.
The scheme includes a footpath, seating area, new planting and environmental improvements over a wide area.
The aim is to improve what had become a derelict industrial area and provide new pedestrian links with retail and transport areas and the new residential area currently under construction at Green Park.
Providing green space in what was formerly a run-down industrial area is vital to the overall success of the regeneration programme and will improve the public perception of one of the oldest areas of Aberavon.
Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr. Ali Thomas OBE said: “Riverside Walk will provide a green oasis in what had become an increasingly derelict area.
“The scheme together with the new housing being built on Green Park will transform the area, creating a pleasant place for people and relax and an additional link to the town centre.”
Communities Minister, Lesley Griffiths, said: “We want communities across Wales to be vibrant places to live, work and socialise in. This is why I am pleased the Welsh Government has been able to provide regeneration funding of over £10 million to help transform Port Talbot.
“I look forward to seeing the results of the work underway at the old Green Park industrial area to create a new riverside walk and park. This latest project follows the completion of improvements at Station Road and Harbour Walk, which are transforming the town and making Port Talbot a more pleasant and inviting place to live and work.”
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