New regeneration plans will be ‘transformative’ for towns’ high streets

New regeneration plans for Bargoed and Blackwood have been broadly welcomed by councillors.

Placemaking plans are blueprints which set out how Caerphilly County Borough Council will try to breathe new life into town centres and attract grants and investment.

Based on the plan already in place for Caerphilly town, the new documents seek to continue that work in other parts of the borough, said Cllr Jamie Pritchard, the cabinet member for regeneration.

The council’s aim is to “rejuvenate our high streets in challenging times” and “we are positive about what Blackwood and Bargoed can become”, he added.

The plans have been developed through consultation with local residents, traders and councillors, a council meeting heard on Tuesday July 1.

Liam Hopkins, from planning specialists The Urbanists, which drew up the placemaking plans, said there are “different opportunities” for each town, based on the “shared aspirations of residents and businesses”.

In Bargoed, the proposals include more events, town-centre housing, hospitality businesses, better connections between the high street and public transport, and action against problem parking.

Proposals for Blackwood include improved connections, more homes in the town centre, better green spaces, and a wider leisure and entertainment offer.

Residents of both towns will see empty shops tackled in a bid to improve the look and feel of their high streets.

This could include the council taking over some vacant properties by way of a £4.5 million grant, Cllr Pritchard said.

Blackwood councillor Andrew Farina-Childs said he “fully” supports the new placemaking plan, which would “undoubtedly have a positive impact and really see the town thriving again”.

He singled out proposals for more leisure, accessible and youth services as highlights, as well as practical additions such as public toilets and some free car parking.

Fellow Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix also supported the plan, but said it would “take years to come to fruition”.

He urged the council to “keep consulting” with traders, residents and councillors throughout the process.

Aberbargoed and Bargoed councillor Dawn Ingram-Jones called the plan for her ward “very exciting” and said the town’s regeneration would be “transformatory” and “make a difference”.

“We are really looking forward to the mix of uses,” she said. “Retail as we know is very difficult”.

Ward colleague Cllr Christine Bissex-Foster noted the plans are “not a short-term project” and asked how the council will “ensure this stays at the top of the pile and [is] not forgotten”.

“We’ve got a really strong team, really energetic,” replied Allan Dallimore, the council’s regeneration services manager.

“It’s going to be a constant engagement,” Cllr Pritchard added.