“A bit of vitality”: Plan to tackle empty spaces in Bargoed town centre

A plan is in motion to help tackle empty shops in Bargoed. 

A new ‘Meanwhile Space’ will be coming to the town centre – which is the temporary use of a vacant unit, similar to a pop-up.

The “‘Meanwhile Space’ will take over a building for 12 months. 

At a meeting in October at Jax Bar in Bargoed, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s town centre manager Jo-Hillier Raikes spoke about the concept.

Ms Hillier-Raikes said the project would “bring a bit of vitality to the town”.

She added that this would not only “test the market” but could also “encourage” other businesses. 

The “Meanwhile Space” will be run by Urban Foundry, a creative regeneration agency, which has set up a similar project in Swansea. 

Caerphilly Observer understands there are currently two organisations interested in being based at the space – though the exact venue has not yet been confirmed.

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, council deputy leader and cabinet member for prosperity, regeneration, and climate change, said: “We’re working to reduce empty buildings in our town centres, and as Bargoed has a higher number of vacant premises, this space has been recognised as an area for intervention. 

Cllr Dawn Ingram Jones, county councillor for the Bargoed and Aberbargoed ward, also commented on the concept and said: As a former business owner based on the high street of Bargoed Town, I very much welcome the Meanwhile Space.

“It will give small businesses the opportunity to try out their business concept in Bargoed town before taking the leap to opening up independently on the high street. 

“Continuing CCBC investment in Bargoed should also give residents confidence that we are taking their concerns seriously and making progress on revitalising the town.”