Works are underway as part of Rhayader's shop front improvement scheme
Works are underway as part of Rhayader's shop front improvement scheme
Properties along Rhayader's high street are receiving a facelift, as the town's shop improvement scheme is underway.
Scaffolding is in place on some properties, other work is being done and now the first claim for a shop front grant has been received.
Initially it was hoped that £470,000 would be coming to the town for the grants but as the town centre falls within a heritage protection zone to help protect the history and heritage against inappropriate development, some work cannot go ahead.
But town clerk Julie Stephens said at the moment there will only be a difference of about £30,000.
She said: “We have had the first claim in, its a small one so that we can used to the process.
“Rhayader Town Council continues to work with property and business owners in Rhayader to deliver an exciting programme of town improvements under the Welsh Government’s “Transforming Towns, Shop Frontage Improvement Scheme Grant”.
“Whilst there is disappointment that not all the desired works can progress, due to the town centre falling within a “Heritage protection zone” introduced to help protect the history and heritage against inappropriate development of the market town.
“There is much enthusiasm for all the works that will go ahead.
“Sitting at the geographic centre of Wales at the crossroads of the A44 and A470, Rhayader is a very busy market town who’s high street boast a wide variety of independent shops and cafes.
“The works currently underway will see properties along the high street receive a much-needed face lift and help shine a light on the vibrant and much loved market town.”
Rhayader mayor Councillor James Stuart said: “It is so nice to drive or walk through the town and see people using the recently refurbished toilets again or to see the scaffolding up and properties shining and the new signage, it is just making such a difference in the town. Its great to see.”
Councillor Clare Evans paid tribute to the clerk and the business people of the town for the amount of work they have put into making the scheme work.
Members noted the update.
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