A councillor has described Bridgend town centre as a “complete dump” despite ongoing regeneration works, sparking a heated debate at a council meeting. Councillor Owain Clatworthy made the remark during an update on the Bridgend Town Centre Masterplan, a 10-year strategy first published in 2021 to revitalise the area into a “liveable and vibrant place.”
Masterplan review needed amid changing habits
The latest report to council bosses acknowledged the document still had relevance but required a review to address changes since its publication, including the council’s new local development plan and shifts in how people live, work, and shop. The report suggested a move towards a more mixed-use strategy for the future.
Officers said the initial plan aimed to increase town centre living, improve public spaces, support businesses, enhance transport links, and protect heritage. Priority projects include the new £60m Bridgend College campus, the Sunnyside Wellness village, and the council’s purchase of the Rhiw shopping centre.
Councillor's 'dump' comment draws backlash
Cllr Clatworthy described the town centre as a “complete dump” rife with anti-social behaviour and asked what could be done to attract higher-end businesses. This drew a visible reaction from members, with Cllr Jon-Paul Blundell calling it an unfair statement, noting local businesses are doing their best to make Bridgend a great place to work. Cllr Colin Davies highlighted the thriving night-time economy and asked Clatworthy to retract his statement.
Officers noted a “generous” grant scheme covering up to 40% of development costs for town centre buildings, and engagement with partners to address homelessness and anti-social behaviour. Cllr Maxine Lewis asked about compelling property owners to fix up properties, revealing that around 70% of town centre properties are owned by one owner, with ongoing efforts to “move properties on.” Cllr Ian Williams questioned the council’s response to public consultations showing a clear desire to depedestrianise parts of the town centre closed to traffic.
Major projects underway
Bridgend College town centre campus
Expected for completion in January 2027, the new £60m college site at Cheapside will provide classrooms, IT suites, multi-purpose studios, catering kitchens, hair and beauty salons, dance studios, performance areas, a 250-seat theatre, and a café. It aims to drive daily footfall into the town.
Sunnyside Wellness Village
A £20m wellness village on the site of the former council offices and magistrates’ court is nearing completion after a three-year hold between 2021 and 2024. It will create 59 affordable homes and a three-storey health centre with a GP practice, community dental services, and a pharmacy. The project is led by Linc Cymru, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Bridgend County Borough Council, and the Welsh Government.
Rhiw Shopping Centre
Purchased by the council for over £5m in March 2026, the shopping centre at Nolton Street is considered a potential “game-changer” by council leader John Spanswick. Opportunities include a new market, retail units, community facilities, and additional accommodation. The purchase followed the 2023 closure of the indoor market due to RAAC concrete in the roof.
Wyndham House
Plans submitted last December could see housing association Valleys to Coast turn the “substantially empty” building into its new headquarters, bringing around 300 staff from Tremains Road to the town centre. Work includes internal and external alterations and a potential new public toilet. Existing ground-floor tenants include the Post Office.
Other initiatives
Other projects include a new town heritage trail in collaboration with Bridgend Library and Bridgend Town Council, and a town centre parking survey to address concerns over a lack of spaces for shoppers, workers, and college students.
