Posted on: Monday 15 July 2024
Nearly £2m has been invested in Blaenavon over the past five years, thanks to a project aimed at preserving the town centre’s heritage.
Five key buildings have been renovated as part of the Townscape Heritage Programme (THP), including the historic Market Tavern which is currently being converted into residential and commercial units.
Ten multifaceted community activities have been delivered as part of the initiative which ends this summer.
Today, a survey launches to assess the impact of the THP project. Residents can take part online here or collect a paper copy from:
- Co-op Food, Ivor Street, Blaenavon NP4 9NA
- The Lion Hotel, 41 Broad Street, Blaenavon NP4 9NH
- Blaenavon World Heritage Centre, Church Road, Blaenavon NP4 9AE
The closing date for responses is midnight Monday 05 August.
Councillor Joanne Gauden, Executive Member for Economy, Skills & Regeneration, said: “It has been lovely watching buildings being restored to their former glory, and the community of Blaenavon coming together to work on some brilliant projects.
“You can see and feel the impact of this programme just by looking around the town and talking to residents.
“It really has been a journey, and a lot of people have rediscovered the heritage of the town.
“I am thrilled with the results and would like to thank everyone who has been involved over the past five years for all of their hard work.
“I would encourage people to complete the survey because the communities feedback will support future bids and developments.”
Cllr Gareth Davies said: “As Chair of the Townscape Heritage Programme I've been happy to contribute to the evaluation of the project, taking lessons on what has worked well and what could be improved is a vital step in designing future funding bids and programmes, so I'm pleased to encourage residents and stakeholders to provide their thoughts to the evaluation by filling in the online survey.”
The THP programme started in 2018 thanks to a £1.9m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Torfaen County Borough Council, Blaenavon Town Council, Cadw and Private Sector Applicants.
As part of the programme, a tapestry recording memories of shops and businesses on Blaenavon’s Broad Street was created last year.
Earlier in the year, the tapestry was turned into a new digital and audio exhibition which can be viewed at the Blaenavon World Heritage Centre
A “Hidden Histories of Blaenavon” film was also produced exploring and celebrating key and lesser-known figures who helped to shape Blaenavon town during the Victorian period, and Mynavon, a Youtube video was created by young people and supported by Blaenavon Male Voice Choir.