Cabinet members in Blaenau Gwent have approved the appointment of a joint Strategic Development and Investment Partner to help deliver regeneration and investment across Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen.
The report to cabinet recommended that Willmott Dixon be appointed by the two councils to support the delivery of regeneration projects, new homes, infrastructure improvements and inward investment opportunities across both areas.
Willmott Dixon will be appointed through the Pagabo Developer Led Framework, subject to final procurement and legal assurance requirements. Initial pre-development work will be carried out under a 12-month agreement, and any future projects will be subject to separate approvals and governance processes.
According to the council, the partnership will give access to specialist development expertise, additional capacity and investment opportunities to help progress complex regeneration schemes and unlock key strategic sites. The arrangement is also expected to support delivery of the Joint Local Development Plan, while both local authorities keep control over key decisions on land, funding and project approvals.
The two councils agreed in July 2025 to jointly procure a long-term Strategic Development and Investment Partner.
Councillor John Morgan, Cabinet Member Economy and Place, said: “This partnership represents an important step in helping us realise our ambitions for Blaenau Gwent and our federated partners 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.”
Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen were the first local authorities in Wales to adopt the Marmot approach, which the council said reflects a shared commitment to reducing inequalities and improving outcomes for communities through sustainable regeneration and inclusive economic growth.
