Agenda item

Members considered information in relation to the Regeneration and Economic Development Team as contained within the circulated report and received a presentation which accompanied the information.

Members heard about the team’s roles and responsibilities including; areas within the public realm, Harbourside development, Neath, Port Talbot and Pontardawe Town Centres, tourism and leisure and raising the profile of employment in the Borough. Members were pleased to note that the role of Neath Town Centre Manager was being retained and expanded to include Port Talbot and Pontardawe Town Centres and could look further in future to include other towns such as Skewen and Ystalyfera.

The Committee heard about how the team interact with local businesses, building relationships and responding to requests for advice and support.

Members discussed the strategy for Aberafan Seafront and were pleased to note the significant interest in improving the restaurant presence on the beach. The Committee noted that Aberafan is becoming a destination in its own right and agreed that momentum is key whilst carefully managing the timings of any new facilities whilst encouraging diverse and varied restaurant options.

Members asked for more information in relation to the houses above the shops on Station Road. They were further informed about the Vibrant and Viable Places project which is encouraging businesses to convert empty spaces above shops into apartments in partnership with Gwalia. There is one site which is being completed as a pilot and there are now 21 sites which have been approved.

The Committee asked for a progress report on the Transport Hub

and were informed that certain elements of funding were being finalised but work should start within this financial year. In relation to Port Talbot Police Station the Committee were informed that plans for its demolition this year are commencing but that work with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) in relation to flood issues need to be resolved.

The Committee congratulated the team on the work undertaken and praised the Report Card which they felt was the strongest that the Committee had seen. The Cabinet Member echoed his thanks to the team stating that they are very well regarded and provide essential support and value to the wider community.

Following Scrutiny the report was noted.