Abertillery will take centre stage this March as businesses, residents and the council come together for a special one week town boost aimed at improving the town centre.
Running from Tuesday 10 March to Saturday 14 March, the programme is being led by Creative Communities International with support from Welsh Government and the Design Commission for Wales.
The week will begin with a series of hands on events at The Met in Abertillery before moving to a one day practical workshop to transform part of Somerset Street.
The initiative forms part of the Blaenau Gwent Deal, a new way of working with communities, with the council saying it is listening to local people about what matters most to them.
Councillor John Morgan, Cabinet Member for Economy and Place, said:
“We’re committed to creating vibrant, well-connected communities where people and businesses can thrive. At our recent Citizens Assembly, lots of you told us you wanted to see improvements to our town centres, and we spoke about how residents, businesses and local organisations can come together to make this happen and the one-week boost is a great example of this – I’d encourage anyone in the area to get involved.”
The programme will include an information evening, planning sessions and business workshops focused on reducing barriers and increasing footfall.
The week will culminate in a One Day Makeover on Saturday 14 March from 8am to 5pm, when a key space on Somerset Street will be transformed.
Organisers say the makeover will demonstrate what can be achieved through collaboration, creativity and a modest budget, offering a clear vision for the future of the town centre.
The budget for the One Day Makeover is being provided through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Events are open to local businesses, residents, community groups and volunteers. No experience is needed, but registration is essential and attendance is free.
The One Week Town Boost aims to show how collective community action can help shape a more vibrant, welcoming and prosperous town centre for Abertillery.
