The plans for Cowbridge were launched at a community event held at Cowbridge Town Hall.
Placemaking is about working together to collectively improve our communities and involves listening closely to local voices and incorporating their ideas to create towns and neighbourhoods that are more vibrant and enjoyable for all.
The new plans seek to build on what already makes our communities great places to live, work and visit, and make them better for future generations.
The Cowbridge plans are the result of wide-ranging feedback and ideas from residents and local groups and focuses on celebrating the town’s unique character whilst improving connectivity and supporting local shops and services in a thriving community.
The core objectives of the proposed Cowbridge plans seek to:
- Celebrate the town’s heritage to bring activity and vibrancy back to the High Street
- Connect key areas of the town through the High Street
- Emphasise the importance of Cowbridge’s green spaces
- Propose public realm improvements to encourage visitors and locals to explore and spend more time in the town
The plans categorise project ideas into short, medium, and long-term goals. While some initiatives can be implemented straight away, others may be more complex projects that will require time, additional funding, and collaboration between various partners to bring to fruition.
With Music In Mind is a local not-for-profit community group which seeks to tackle loneliness and isolation among older people and have taken an active role in shaping the plans.
Sarah, from the Cowbridge branch of With Music In Mind, said: “It was great, and really informative, to be a part of the Placemaking process in Cowbridge.
“Having the opportunity to engage in the consultation phase was important to support the voice of older people to ensure Cowbridge remains a beautiful, safe and sociable place to live, for everyone. I think this type of initiative is essential to ensure that towns are developed through the thoughts and wishes of their residents.”
Cllr Geraint Baty, Mayor of Cowbridge, said: “We are excited to launch Cowbridge with Llanblethian’s Placemaking Plan, the culmination of two years of partnership working with the Vale of Glamorgan Council. “This plan is the result of true community collaboration, setting out a shared vision for a vibrant, sustainable and people-centred future for this historic town. We believe it will unlock significant opportunities to enhance our unique character, support local businesses, and create spaces where everyone can thrive in the coming years.”
Cllr Bronwen Brooks, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places, said: “This Placemaking plan is a testament to the great collaboration work between the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Cowbridge Town Council, residents and local groups to draw up these plans.
“By listening closely to the community and valuing their ideas, we are creating a future for Cowbridge that celebrates its unique heritage, strengthens connections with the rest of the Vale and fosters a vibrant and welcoming environment for everyone in the town.”
