Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent councils have approved the appointment of Willmott Dixon Developments as their Strategic Development and Investment Partner to bring forward regeneration, investment and development opportunities.
Willmott Dixon Developments, working in partnership with regeneration specialist Cityheart, will help identify, assess and progress opportunities that can deliver new homes, employment opportunities, infrastructure improvements, inward investment and wider community benefits across both council areas.
The partnership will undertake a review of strategic sites across Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent over the next 12 months, helping to identify opportunities for development and investment and supporting the delivery of the Joint Local Development Plan.
The Strategic Development and Investment Partnership has been established to provide additional development expertise, capacity and investment insight, while ensuring both councils retain control over key decisions relating to land, funding and project approvals.
Councillor Joanne Gauden, Torfaen Council Executive Member for Economy, Skills and Regeneration, added: "Both councils are committed to addressing inequalities within our communities. Regeneration and projects that align with the Marmot principles and deliver the well-being objectives in our County Plan are a central part of our approach to driving economic growth.
"A strategic partnership will act as a key delivery mechanism to translate ambition into action, accelerate regeneration, maximise complex development opportunities, make full use of external investment and unlock opportunities to provide quality housing and high value jobs."
Councillor John Morgan, Cabinet Member Economy and Place at Blaenau Gwent Council, said: "This partnership represents an important step in helping us realise our ambitions for Blaenau Gwent and our federated partner, Torfaen. By combining our local knowledge and vision with specialist development expertise, we can accelerate regeneration projects, attract further investment and create opportunities that benefit our communities for generations to come.
"Our focus remains on delivering high-quality homes, improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses and creating the conditions for sustainable economic growth. Working with a strategic partner will strengthen our ability to unlock complex sites and bring forward projects that make a real difference to residents across the county borough."
Willmott Dixon Developments will deliver the role in partnership with Cityheart, drawing on the experience of both organisations in bringing forward complex regeneration and development projects.
Chris Wheeler, National Head of Development (Regeneration) at Willmott Dixon Developments, said:"We're pleased to have been appointed as Development and Investment Partner for Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen.
"Working alongside Cityheart, we'll support both councils in reviewing the initial portfolio of strategic sites and identifying opportunities that can deliver lasting benefits for local communities.
"The wider Willmott Dixon Group already has strong links to the region, having delivered projects including the Gwent Archives and Records Office and Ebbw Vale Leisure Centre, and we're looking forward to building on that connection.”
Benji Slater, Development Director at Cityheart, said: “The partnership between Willmott Dixon Developments and Cityheart reflects our shared commitment to working alongside Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen councils, two authorities with a clear vision for the future of their communities.
“This part of Wales shaped the industrial world, and we have a rare opportunity to build on that heritage and local pride by unlocking long-term investment, creating new homes and jobs, and leaving a legacy that will last for generations. It’s a hugely exciting opportunity, and we can’t wait to get started.”
Pic credit: Benji Slater, Cllr John Morgn, Cllr Joanne Gauden, Chris Wheeler