Plans for a new green space in Bargoed town centre have been revealed.
Residents, businesses and town centre visitors have a chance to view the proposals that will transform part of Hanbury Road Car Park into an urban green park.
The park will feature a grassed area, events space, seating to enjoy views across the valley and a landmark sculpture.
Caerphilly County Borough Council is currently consulting on the plans with a public exhibition being held at Bargoed Library until February 8.
Regeneration officers from the council will also be on hand at Bargoed Library to answer any questions on Friday February 7 between 11.30am and 2.30pm and again on Saturday February 8 between 10am and 1pm.
Cllr Ken James, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “These plans to create a green space in the centre of Bargoed are on display and I would urge interested residents and other parties to pop along to Bargoed Library to have a look at the proposals and air their views.”
The proposed project is being delivered through the Bargoed Regeneration Programme with funding secured from the European Regional Development Fund and Caerphilly County Borough Council.
The funding for the urban park is part of an extra £3.2 million in European cash for Bargoed and Newbridge announced by Welsh Government Finance Minister Jane Hutt.
Part of Caerphilly Council’s wider regeneration plans for Newbridge, the funding will build on previous regeneration phases which included the development of Calzaghe Bridge as well as the renovation of the Newbridge Memorial Hall and Institute.
In Bargoed, the funding will also support the development of a new site for business.
A commercial improvement funding scheme will also be available for local businesses in both towns to enhance the frontage of their premises.
Announcing the funding this week, Mrs Hutt said: “I am delighted to announce extra EU Funds to continue the regeneration of Newbridge and Bargoed.
“The funding will help build on progress already made in creating an attractive environment to ensure the success of both towns.
“It will also boost private sector investment and contribute towards the long term economic prosperity of the area.
“This is another example of how Wales benefits from EU Funds and membership of the EU.”
Jeff Cuthbert, Caerphilly AM, welcomed the extra funds and said: “Recently I welcomed EU funded infrastructure projects such as the new railway station in Energlyn and Churchill Park and forthcoming improvements to Ystrad Mynach station. This future development will breath further life into Bargoed and builds on the major improvements undertaken here last year. European funding continues to deliver much needed improvements to all parts of the Caerphilly constituency”.
Caerphilly Council will be consulting the public on the proposals over the coming months and all projects will be delivered by mid 2015.
Bargoed, Bargoed, Bargoed is this the only town in caerphilly all of them need funding and facilities.