More cash for regeneration (From Free Press Series)

More cash for regeneration

NORTH TORFAEN is set to benefit from a share of a new £140 million National Assembly fund aimed at regenerating the Heads of the Valleys area.

Following work to make the Heads of the Valleys road a dual carriageway, the Assembly launched a programme to ensure the area capitalises on new business it hopes will be attracted to the area.

Assembly Minister for Economic Development and Transport Andrew Davies described the scheme (called the Strategic Framework for the Heads of the Valleys) as "a major programme, to build a confident, healthy, prosperous and sustainable future".

Blaenavon, Abersychan and Garndiffaith are to benefit from a share of the money to aid regeneration.

Mr Davies, AM, was at Blaenavon Workmen's Hall to launch the scheme last Thursday.

He said: "We are committing ourselves to transforming the quality of life and life opportunities for the people and communities of the South Wales valleys."

A board will be set up to oversee the programme and will comprise leaders of Torfaen and valleys councils, along with Andrew Davies.

Torfaen Council leader Councillor Bob Wellington said: " This means a significant part of northern Torfaen will be able to benefit from a major new focus from the Assembly and all partners, working with all councils in the valleys area.

"The aim is to build on the benefits that dualling the whole of the Heads of the Valleys road will bring to the region. Torfaen council will be looking to ensure Torfaen plays its full part in the renaissance of the whole of the valleys," he added.