Work has started on the multi-million pound redevelopment of Neath town centre.
The revamp will see a brand new leisure centre with a swimming pool, gym, health suite and cafe, along with a modern library and new retail zone built off Water Street.
Construction firm Kier is working on the scheme which is hoped to benefit the town centre by improving sustainability and footfall.
It is also hoped to aid the recovery of the town centre following the coronavirus pandemic by bringing new uses into Neath at a time of uncertainty for Britain’s traditional town centres, a Neath Port Talbot Council spokesman said.
The Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Councillor Rob Jones, said: “This redevelopment will bring new activities and investment to the town centre, strengthening its commercial core and supporting more people to lead a healthy lifestyle while improving wellbeing facilities for the town and surrounding areas.
“The swimming pool, health suite, gym and library will attract many thousands of additional people into the heart of the town centre, including many families, every week.
“We look forward to welcoming them.”
Recently WalesOnline reported on empty shops in Neath and how important the town centre redevelopment was to its future success.
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The following facilities will be created by the redevelopment:
• Six commercial / retail units – 1,354 square metres
• Leisure Centre - swimming pool, gym, health suite – 5,631 square metres
• Library – 600 square metres
• High quality public space
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Construction is due for completion by Kier at the end of April, 2022.
The scheme is being part-funded by The Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns fund.
Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hannah Blythyn, said of the Neath Town Centre project: “The regeneration of Neath Town Centre is a prime of example of how we are supporting and securing the future of Welsh towns through our Transforming Towns programme.
“This project will not only boost sustainability, footfall and economic growth but will have a beneficial impact on the wellbeing of the local community. I look forward to seeing the redevelopment when it is complete.”
