Town and city centres across Wales are in line for a major facelift after the Welsh Government unveiled a £19.6m cash package. The funding, part of the Transforming Towns and Placemaking programmes, will target empty shops, tired public spaces and stalled developments — with South West Wales councils among the biggest winners.
Swansea’s Biophilic Living gets fresh cash
Swansea Council has secured more than £559,000 for the commercial and retail elements of the flagship Biophilic Living scheme, which promises 50 affordable homes alongside shops and offices in a nature‑inspired design.
A further £1.36m is earmarked for the Mowbray Yard redevelopment, creating a new green courtyard space in the heart of the city centre.
Port Talbot facelift for Aberafan Shopping Centre
In Port Talbot, up to £840,000 will fund a redesign of the public realm outside the southern entrance of the Aberafan Shopping Centre, aiming to boost footfall and modernise the tired frontage.
Haverfordwest Wilko site transformed
Pembrokeshire County Council will receive more than £1.27m to redevelop the former Wilko store in Haverfordwest, part of the Western Quayside regeneration. A smaller grant of £100,000 will also support works at 16‑18 Bridge Street.
Porthcawl seafront gets new events space
Bridgend Council has secured £600,000 to create a new events space on the Hillsboro South site in Porthcawl, a key part of the seafront regeneration plans.
Wyndham House overhaul for Bridgend town centre
Bridgend will also benefit from £1.78m to acquire and refurbish Wyndham House, with housing association Valleys to Coast planning to transform the building into its new HQ alongside apartments and commercial units.
Welsh Government hails “heart and soul” of communities
Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government Jayne Bryant said the funding would “breathe new life into our high streets, support local traders, and create the vibrant, welcoming spaces that our communities deserve.”
