Article

Supported by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Project Development and Funding Team, the redevelopment is a Glynneath Town Council scheme aimed at improving facilities at the park for residents of all ages.

The ambitious ‘Phase One’ of the project, valued at £817,860, will introduce a range of new and improved facilities. The existing bowls green will be replaced with a children’s park, tailored to young adventurers up to eleven years old. The new play equipment will include swings, zip-wires, trampolines, a see-saw, an inclusive roundabout, a multi-play unit, rope course and wet-pour ‘roadway’ where children can practice their cycling and scooter skills.

Three of the tennis courts will undergo a full refurbishment with the fourth court being turned into a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), offering versatile space for a variety of sports including football, hockey, and netball.

Plus, the existing teen park will be getting a complete overhaul with exciting new equipment being added including a double zip-line, cone climber, rotator, swings and a youth shelter.

The redevelopment prioritises inclusivity, with new equipment designed for children with disabilities, ensuring the park is accessible to everyone.

The project has been made possible through various funding contributions, including:

• £395,000 from the Maes Gwyn Community Benefit Fund
• £393,240.10 from the Pen y Cymoedd ‘Vision’ Fund
• £13,518 from Glynneath Town Council
• £10,000 from Neath Port Talbot Council’s Community Minor Projects Grant (a grant available to all Town and Community Council’s in Neath Port Talbot)
• £6,101.90 from the Selar Community Benefit Fund

A spokesperson from Glynneath Town Council, said: “This redevelopment marks a new chapter for Glynneath Welfare Park, and we are proud to bring these improvements to life for the residents of Glynneath. The upgraded facilities will provide opportunities for recreation and community activities for people of all ages and abilities. We are incredibly grateful for the support from Neath Port Talbot Council and all the funders who have helped make this vision a reality.”

Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism & Wellbeing, said: “We are thrilled to support the redevelopment of Glynneath Welfare Park, which will be a fantastic asset for the community. This is a great example of how our Project Development and Funding Team can help secure funding and support key projects in the community.”

The Council’s Project Development and Funding Team offers a grants advisory service to all voluntary and third sector organisations based in Neath Port Talbot. It also helps community groups to successfully apply for grant aid, and provides support with the management of capital projects.