Port Talbot is set to receive £11m of UK Government funding for the replacement of a busy town centre bridge. The announcement came as Chancellor John Healey set out his first budget in the House of Commons on October 28, which he said would give "breathing space" to people across the UK.
Funding for Welsh Projects
As part of the budget, Mr Healey also announced funding for specific projects in Wales, including £11m for the Aberavon bridge located in the heart of Port Talbot. The bridge runs through the town centre, connecting Station Road to the Aberafan shopping centre across the River Afan.
Further on, it also connects to Civic Square, which is home to Neath Port Talbot Council's headquarters and Yr Aelwyd theatre, which is currently under construction. The funding comes alongside other Welsh projects, which include £2.5m for a science park in north Wales and £30m for the Cardiff Parkway project.
Council Response
Speaking after the announcement, councillor Scott Jones, leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, said the funding was welcome news, adding that it would help maintain connections through the town centre as well as reducing flood risk.
He said: "This is very welcome news for Port Talbot and represents a significant investment in the future of the town. Reducing flood risk is hugely important for our communities and businesses, and replacing Aberavon Bridge would help us better protect homes and commercial properties."
"It would also provide opportunities for the future regeneration of surrounding areas while maintaining this important connection through the heart of Port Talbot town centre. There is still work to be done, including the development and approval of a business case, but today's announcement is a positive step forward. We look forward to working with the UK Government to take the project forward."
