A package of investment has been secured to revitalise Aberystwyth’s sea front area and boost Ceredigion’s local economy during the budget announcement today.
Ceredigion County Council welcomes the announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer during the UK Government’s budget yesterday (27 October 2021) as it was confirmed that Ceredigion will be awarded with an investment for the Old College and Harbour as part of the UK Levelling Up Fund.
The funding will contribute to realising Aberystwyth University’s plans to bring new life to the Old College, and the delivery of schemes to create a Living Harbour and a Revitalised Promenade in Aberystwyth
The bid was put forward by Ceredigion County Council in June 2021 following input by local stakeholders and partners and it forms part of the Council’s vision for boosting the economy.
The investment that will be received through the UK Levelling Up Fund will be an opportunity to kick start a programme of investments that will help improve Aberystwyth as a destination to live, visit, work and study.
Councillor Ellen ap Gwynn, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, welcomed the announcement: “This is a significant investment in our local economy that will help improve the long-term prospects of Aberystwyth and the town centre through ensuring investment in economic infrastructure and assets that will help drive jobs opportunities, skills, inward investment and recreation. Thanks must go to all our partners and the local community for all their effort and support in ensuring the bid was strong, and ultimately successful. Along with other potential developments in the county and across Mid Wales with the emerging Mid Wales Growth Deal, there is a lot happening in Ceredigion. We look forward to working closely with Governments and stakeholders at all levels to realise the full potential of this investment.”
Dr Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, Director of Welsh Language and External Engagement at Aberystwyth University said: “This announcement today is most welcome and is excellent news for Aberystwyth and Ceredigion. It is also another important step towards delivering on our vision to transform the Old College into a vibrant cultural centre with outstanding facilities for the University, the local community and visitors to the area.”
