Funding bids for two Knighton projects have been submitted – an outdoor stage and a multi-use games area

Knighton is to hoping to have two new additions soon – an outdoor covered stage for performances and a multi-use games area.

The town council has submitted expressions of interest for funding for both projects to Powys County Council.

It is hoped the proposed stage will be created in Pinner’s Hole, part of the Offa’s Dyke Park, and the games area on the old tennis courts on Bowling Green Lane will go ahead with financial support.

Over the years, occasional plays have been staged in the area but on the ground, now the performers will be elevated onto a purpose-built covered stage.

The plans include a power supply for sound and lighting and a secure space for storage of equipment and performers clothes and valuables.

Knighton Mayor Councillor Tom Taylor has been a great supporter of the proposal.

He said; “We have the support of numerous local groups, who want to make use of this facility including, the Town Silver Band, choral groups, Young Farmers Clubs, etc., besides those who have put on plays in the past. “It is hoped to have the facility fully operational by spring 2027.

"A stage and facilities for outdoor performances in Pinner's Hole is an exciting prospect for Knighton.

“Not only will it give Knighton folk an opportunity to enjoy performances of plays and music in the delightful outdoor setting of a natural amphitheatre, it will be a boost for tourism and all the economic benefits that will bring for our businesses. "This would be just the sort of investment that the town needs."

The project for the old tennis court includes putting down an astro-turf all weather pitch to create a multi-games area for all ages.

Councillor Chris Branford who helped to clear out the old tennis courts area said such a facility in the town would mean that sportspeople would not have to travel to Rhayader and other places.

She said it would benefit the whole town and two grant applications have been submitted, Powys County Council has £10,000 for them from an earlier grant round and a couple of companies are keen to sponsor it.

Councillor Taylor said the Pinner’s Hole project would require an electricity supply costing about £20 a month and the town council would be liable for that. He said the tennis courts would also need lighting in the winter. He said both projects would need to be completed before next year anyway so the council could precept for it.

Councillor Bob Andrews asked if residents the Cottage Residential home near the old tennis court had been consulted and Councillor Branford said she and the Deputy Mayor Councillor Tina Shar had been there and the sports centre would close at 9pm anyway.

A spokesperson for Powys County Council said: "The council is supporting 18 towns across Powys through the UK Government's Pride in Place Impact Fund programme, with up to £1.5 million available in total to help regenerate high streets, enhance public spaces and support the development of shared community facilities such as play, sports or leisure spaces.

"Town councils have been invited to submit project proposal for consideration as part of this programme. Any proposals must align with local place plans or town plans that have been produced by individual town councils. Proposals will be assessed against the agreed funding criteria."

Members agreed to submit the project proposals.