Posted on: Thursday 5 December 2024
Cabinet members have approved a plan to use some of the UK Government funding allocated to Pontypool town centre to upgrade part of the town's sewer network.
Nearly £1 million has been earmarked for town centre improvements, thanks to the Shared Prosperity Fund.
Up to £528,000 will now be used to upgrade the sewer network beneath Hanbury Road, which will be essential for any future development in the area.
In a report to cabinet on Tuesday, David Leech, Strategic Director for Adults and Communities, said: "The detailed design work for the Levelling Up Fund has highlighted an emerging capacity issue relating to the sewerage network in the Hanbury Road area of Pontypool.
"Without upgrading the sewer network, future regeneration projects in the area would likely be constrained."
Council Leader Cllr Anthony Hunt said: "The reality is that we either invest in this project or block future regeneration in that part of town."
The cabinet report explained Welsh Water was asked to contribute to the costs of the work. They acknowledged that failure to invest would prevent further regeneration activity but no agreement to fund was forthcoming.
Work is due to begin in the New Year and is expected to take up to 10 weeks. The closure dates will be confirmed in the next couple of weeks.
A section of Hanbury Road, near St James' Church, is due to be closed for up to eight weeks.
Diversions will be in place and alternative arrangements are being made with bus companies.
Businesses and residents affected by the closure will also be contacted. Access will be maintained for St James’ Field residents.
Drivers will be able to access Glantorvean Road car park from the north end of town.
It is expected pedestrian access through the Italian Gardens will be maintained.
The toilets will need to be closed for several weeks while the work is carried out. Details will be published in advance. Alternative toilets will be available at Pontypool Indoor Market.
Pontypool Indoor Market Streetfood Saturdays, the summer events programme and grants for new high street businesses are some of the other initiatives supported by the SPF town centre project.